This is another one of those books on my list from Jessica that is an absolute must read.  I haevn’t read it yet, but it’s on the list.  And after reading the review she just wrote, I’m already heartbroken for this little guy that I know very little about.  Must learn how to read more quickly…

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Oh, look, it’s another children’s book! What a treat! You guys, this book should be required reading for all humans. Basically, I feel like you shouldn’t be a certified human being until you’ve finished the last page of this sweet little gem. Because once you do, you see the world differently and you’ll always be a little bit kinder to everyone you meet. I seriously felt like the Grinch…my heart grew a minimum of two sizes once I’d finished.

The book is about a little boy named August who was born with severe facial deformities. For most of his childhood, he had to endure several corrective surgeries, so his parents home schooled him until the fourth grade. Now that his health is more stable, he’s finally able to attend a real school…and he’s terrified about what it’ll be like to come into contact with kids his age every day. The book chronicles his first year as a 5th grader. It’s such a lovely story of learning about empathy, kindness and compassion. You will root for August so hard, you will not want to put this page-turner down until you’ve seen him through…and then, you’ll be so sad to leave him behind once you’ve read the last page. (Have tissues on-hand.)

If you have kids who are a little older, maybe 4th-7th grade-ish, this would be a great book to read and discuss together. I’m thinking of having a couple of kids just so I can read this to them. Seems like a good enough reason to me!

Happy Reading,
Jessica