Wonder is a one-of-a-kind book that deals with bullying in a way that is honest, raw, and eye-opening. I haven’t read many middle grade novels in quite a while, and I have to admit that this is the first one that brought big tears to my eyes. The writing is crisp and witty, and the multiple perspectives really help to give the reader a deep understanding of all the sides to the story. Amazingly, the movie is just as wonderful, and although it is a condensed version of the original, it maintains the original themes that Palacio has inspired her readers with.
Title: WonderAuthor: R.J. Palacio
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Cast: Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson, Izabela Vidovic, Julia Roberts
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Screenplay: Stephen Chbosky, Steve Conrad, Jack Thorne
Genres: Contemporary
Publication Date: February 14, 2012
Rating:
I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.
August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a #1 New York Times bestseller and included on the Texas Bluebonnet Award master list, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance.
❀ Don’t Judge a Book by its Movie is a feature on The Candid Cover spotlighting and reviewing book to movie adaptations. ❀
Wonder: Book vs. Movie
❀ Wonder is a Book About Perseverance
Wonder has been one of those books that has been sitting on my TBR forever, and when the movie details were announced, I knew that the time had come to finally crack it open. For years I have heard nothing but praise for the messages and themes included in the novel, and I am pleased to say that the accolades given to this middle grade novel are well-deserved. It really is a book that can be enjoyed by everyone. The different points of view add to this effect, as there are so many generations of characters in this book. Auggie is such a fantastically developed character, and his perseverance in spite of all the adversity he faces is admirable. It is hard not to fall in love with him and his hilarious outlook on life.
❀ The Movie Closely Mirrors the Book
Fans of the novel will most likely be very pleased that the story is very closely mirrored in the movie version. Albeit there are certain things that have been altered and twisted a little to bring it to the screen, but it in no way changes the outcome of the narrative. Jacob Tremblay is a perfect Auggie, and it is impressive how he seems to be able to really get into the role of such a multi-layered character.
❀ Book is Better, But the Film is Not to Be Missed
Wonder is a book to movie adaptation that isn’t hard to compare. Is the book better than the movie? Of course! However, if you are a fan of the book, you will not be disappointed. This is one story not to be missed whether you read it or see it.
About R.J. Palacio
R.J. Palacio lives in NYC with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. For more than twenty years, she was an art director and graphic designer, designing book jackets for other people while waiting for the perfect time in her life to start writing her own novel. But one day several years ago, a chance encounter with an extraordinary child in front of an ice cream store made R. J. realize that the perfect time to write that novel had finally come. Wonder is her first novel. She did not design the cover, but she sure does love it.
About Lori
Avid reader. Contributor to The Candid Cover. Educator.
This is good to know! My daughter’s teacher is reading them the book. I like knowing she’ll be able to really appreciate that prior to watching the movie!
I hope that she enjoys reading this one! There are so many teachable moments in it that make it perfect for a classroom read-aloud. 🙂
I’d not heard of this book before the movie came out. Now I’ll have to read it.
I adored this book so much. I have not seen the film yet, but I thought the casting for Auggie’s parents was perfect! I
It really is! If you are familiar with Cars, sometimes I could hear a little Lightning McQueen when Owen Wilson spoke. lol
*laughing*
I want to go see this so badly. It just looks absolutely wonderful, and perfect for the holiday. There will be NO READING this book until after I see it@
I’m usually disappointed by movie adaptions. Good to know this one is enjoyable.
We want to read the book first before we watch the movie.
I want to read this first, but the movie trailer looks good.
I am so glad the movie lived up to your expectations! I’ve heard so many great things about it. Wonder is one of my favorite books, so I can’t wait to see it. Thanks for sharing and, as always, fabulous post! <3
I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did. 🙂
I read the book only because someone sent me a copy. It was amazing — so good!! I ended up reading it aloud to my kids (ages 8 and 13) and my students (6th grade). The movie is amazing, too. Honestly, it’s one of those books/movies everyone should get to see.
This looks like a great novel.
Loved the movie as well 🙂
This would be a great read for my daughter. She hasn’t seen the movie yet which is good since I would rather her read the book first.
Loved this movie, I’m sure the book is just as good!
We enjoyed the movie and I am glad to know that book is good as well. It will go on our list.
I’ve been dying to read this!! Thanks for sharing your review!
The book and the movie were both great.
Haven’t seen or read either, but I want to!
Always wanted to read the book. Thanks for the review.