Anchor Text: Wonder

Palacio, R.J. (2012). Wonder. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf.

The chapter book Wonder by R. J. Palacio tells the story of Auggie Pullman, who is starting fifth grade at a new school after previously being homeschooled by his mother. Auggie has a craniofacial disorder that leaves his face severely disfigured. Both he and his parents and older sister Via have concerns about him going to school; they’re worried that others will bully him for his appearance. Luckily, he meets some kids who are kind and learn to truly love him as a friend. However, there are many bumps along the way, in which he encounters a lot of pain in regards to his relationships, with friends who hurt him and the death of their family dog and their beloved Grandmother. Auggie also must face bullying while struggling to fit in and find his place within his new school. In the end, though, he makes lasting friendships and learns to accept himself for who he is, gaining self-confidence and a stronger sense of his identity.