Bon's Book Club - Wonder

This month’s book for Bon’s Book Club was Wonder by R.J. Palacio. I really wasn’t sure what this book was going to be about either.  I’m not sure why, but for some reason I never read the descriptions before I start the book!  Most books I do obviously, but for the book club books, I go in pretty blindly. Here is a description from Amazon:

 “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.” 

First of all, this book was a really easy read.  I think I read it in just a few days, which is my favorite kind of book!  I liked the story, but I didn’t absolutely love it.  I think this book is definitely geared toward a younger crowd. I think this book would be great for grade school aged kids learning about bullying and how people are different. 

I really liked how the author told the story from different points of view.  I’m not sure I have ever read a book like that.  It was interesting to read the thoughts and feelings of those around August, not just from August himself who has dealt with this his whole life.  Getting to hear from his classmates, who weren’t ever around someone like August before was nice.

I know this may sounds petty, but I can’t decide if I wish the author gave us more detail on his face or not.  I mean, there were bits and pieces thrown in, but I am a very visual person, so I would have liked that. On the other hand, I’m not sure it’s actually necessary.  I think the author did that on purpose.

I do have to say the author did a great job in helping me connect to August.  I felt myself really pulling for him and being so proud of him by the end of the book.  I may or may not have even shed a few tears multiple times in the book.  I even had my first real pregnancy cry when his dog died haha.

I liked the book and am glad I read it, but I don’t think personally it was my style.  I like more mystery and suspense or funny books.  I’m not sure if I would recommend it based on that reasoning. If you are looking for an easy read though, this definitely fits the bill!

Next up for Bon’s Book Club is My Story by Elizabeth Smart.  I have been really looking forward to reading this book.  I met her in March of this year and actually got a signed copy of the book, so it’s been sitting on my shelf waiting for this month!  I can’t wait to start it!

Have you read Wonder? What are your thoughts?