Book Review: Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Kindness.



   Like how a campfire provides warmth and a feeling of comfort during the winter nights, this novel, written by R. J. Palacio, gave me warmth and a sense of gratefulness, which is much needed in this, at times, cold world. 

     This novel shows the true meaning of kindness and empathy. With a simple style of writing and a realistic portrayal of middle schoolers, many will find this novel to be very relatable. The tenet principles of this story are hence shown through everyday life situations. This is the type of novel that should be read in middle schools, since instead of merely preaching about kindness, certain actions of the characters highlight and show what it is like to be kind to one another and all the implications (most certainly positive) it has on themselves and those around them. Through sections narrated by different characters, the readers get to see and experience similar events through many perspectives. It ultimately points out that there are reasons for why people do certain things. 

    The author does a great job emphasizing to this world that many people do not need special treatment or consideration by others but instead be considered equal or normal like them. August Pullman didn't want to be special, he just wanted to be seen as an ordinary middle schooler and treated that way. 

  People are almost always ignorant about the struggles and battles the person standing right next to them are facing. So in such situations, it is for the best to be kind; maybe even be more kinder than necessary because not only does it not cost anything, the effect it has on others is often beyond wonderful. 

-Rithin. 

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