Wonder

Wonder

book

2012, Books

WISE
94%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Middle school is a nightmare even if you don't have a rare facial deformity, but Auggie Pullman makes it look like a masterclass in courage.

Amazon4.7
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

Look, the metadata says 1899 and L. Frank Baum, but that's a total glitch—this is R.J. Palacio’s 2012 masterpiece about Auggie Pullman.

It’s basically the anti-brain-rot. While TikTok is busy shortening your kid's attention span, this book is busy expanding their heart. It’s one of those rare 'required reading' books that kids actually enjoy because it doesn't talk down to them. It’s honest about how mean kids can be, but it’s even more honest about how much one good friend can change your life.

If your kid hasn't read this yet, get it. If they have, watch the movie together. It’s a foundational piece of a modern kid's library.

Age Fit

Perfect for 8 to 12-year-olds. It's the sweet spot for kids entering the social jungle of middle school, but honestly, adults get just as much out of it.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
95

It's the ultimate 'choose kind' manifesto. The Pullman family is a model of healthy, supportive dynamics, and the book's focus on character over appearance is top-tier wholesomeness without being saccharine.

Imaginative
82

While it's a realistic fiction story, the use of multiple perspectives is a brilliant narrative choice that forces readers to imagine the world through someone else's eyes—a literal exercise in empathy.

Safe
90

Very safe, though it deals with heavy themes like bullying and social isolation. There's a scene involving a fight in the woods and the death of a family dog that might be tough for younger or more sensitive readers.

Enriching
98

This is social-emotional learning in book form. It tackles complex social hierarchies, the nuance of friendship, and the internal struggle of being 'different' with incredible depth.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • The shifting perspectives give kids a rare look at how their actions affect others, even the 'cool' kids.
  • Auggie is actually funny and relatable, not just a tragic figure to be pitied.
  • It’s a perfect family read-aloud that will actually spark deep conversations instead of just putting you to sleep.
⚠

What to Watch For

  • The 'Plague' game—it's a realistic but brutal depiction of how kids can socially ostracize someone.
  • The death of the family dog, Daisy, is a total tear-jerker. Have the tissues ready.

Conversation Starters

  • "Why do you think Jack Will acted the way he did at first? Was he a 'bad' friend or just a scared one?"
  • "If you saw someone being treated like Auggie in the hallway, what's the 'Choose Kind' move that wouldn't make things awkward?"
  • "Which character's perspective surprised you the most?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic

Related Guides
Writing about Wonder? Put this WISE score on your site