A review by somethingarosie
Wonder by R.J. Palacio

5.0

Wonder has long been one of my favourite films, but I never got around to reading the book. Given how many times I’ve seen the film, I didn’t expect the book to affect me too much. I was proven wrong. 

Naturally, the book has far more depth. The differing POVs were great. Gaining insight into the other characters’ thought processes was wonderful. Especially Olivia and Justin, who we rarely see in the film. Olivia is the glass sibling in this story; a concept I’m very intrigued by. I’ve been the sick sibling, I’ve never been on the other end of it. Therefore, I find it fascinating to hear stories from the other perspective. Her story is just as important, and needs to be heard. Meanwhile, Justin has tics and comes from a broken home. Olivia and Justin face isolation for very different reasons, confiding in one another.

The friendship that forms and prevails between Summer, Jack Will and Augie is so so heartwarming. The portrayal of Augie getting hearing aids. The depiction of how sound and socialising differs without them was particularly impactful. This is not something the film focused on much, but as a hearing aid wearer from the age of six, this meant so so much to me. 

The film ends at the nature trip; in the book, we see it. The Emperor’s guard moment with Amos, Miles, Henry and Jack was another moment of friendship and courage that was incredible. 

The graduation scene brought me to tears. I was a sobbing mess. Oh my days, the feel-good, heartwarming conclusion this book has, I couldn’t stop the tears!!

Worth mentioning for those of you who might be interested in reading: the writing style caters to the younger side of YA. Still a wholly worthwhile read, but it might be too child-like for some.

A story of inclusion, reserving judgement, standing up for those who are not in a position to do so for themselves, friendship and community.

5⭐️