Reviews

3.5 Stars

This book is about August, or Auggie, who was born with facial deformity and after years of homeschooling due to his multiple surgeries, he's finally going to be starting fifth grade in a public school. It's a story about a boy trying to live a normal life despite what he might look like.

I really liked the plot of this book. And I liked the fact that it was a middle grade novel because I love middle grade.

This book has a great premise and a great story to tell. The book is well written and well paced. I even like the multiple perspectives. It was nice to know what others thought of Auggie and how they dealt with it. I wish we'd gotten the perspective of Auggie's parents though that's okay.

My favourite part was the one with Via's POV. I really liked her character as well.

I do have a few problems with the book, though.

One problem is the narrative. The reason I love middle grade is largely because the characters are just kids. I love getting the perspective of someone who has yet to get to the angsty, lying stage of their life. I love the innocence and the simplicity. But the narrative here didn't sound like that of a 10-year-old at all. Auggie didn't feel 10.

Another problem was the format for Justin's part. It was with minimal punctuation and no caps. I might have been okay with it if there had been a reason given for the format, but there wasn't.

The story became a bit dull and cheesy near the end. Predictable too. I wasn't as interested at that point.

Finally, there was the message about being kind. Kindness is great and all but other things are important too. The message worked for this book but not otherwise. I didn't agree with it entirely.

Overall, this was a good book but it didn't resonate with me, emotionally.

cerizeseries's review against another edition

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5.0

This book deserves a standing ovation. RJ Pelacio will surely touch the hearts of those who'll read this. Truly a masterpiece.

allicatca's review against another edition

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5.0

This book is MAGNIFICENT. The quotes from other authors are inspiring and there are so many meaningful passages in the book itself.

This book emphasizes that it is what is WITHIN a person that matters most. That all humans need attention and care, respect and concern from others.

The perspectives of multiple characters are a big part of what impressed me about this book.

aylachisholm's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

5.0

solar_power's review against another edition

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lighthearted sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

emeraldcitylass's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

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