And now a quick book review of a really nice YA book - Wonder by R. J. Palacio. I saw the movie starring Julia Roberts as the mother and it was quite good and heartwarming. The book is even better.
Augie was born with a facial difference and a challenged life. The kid is smart with a good sense of humor. He's just scary to look at and that presents challenges as he enters 5th grade after being home schooled. He has to face real life, real kids, and the gauntlet of preconceptions, rudeness, and life itself.
Who he thought were friends weren't always there to have his back. Meanwhile his sister Olivia is dealing with high school and her own issues. She's been accustomed to always deferring to Augie's issues. He's the baby, the medical miracle, and even though her parents care, she's been shunted to the background.
This book brings to the forefront real life issues, dialogue, and a family with some extra stuff to deal with. The author does this with a nice mix of humor and angst. We can empathize, sympathize, and root for Augie to make it to 5th grade graduation with grace and dignity.
Wonder is a powerful tale and worthy of praise.
Reminds me of the movie Mask.
ReplyDeleteyes, similar theme
DeleteHi Joanne - certainly sounds an interesting read - and film ... thanks for highlighting it for us ... take care - Hilary
ReplyDeletejust a nice message book and movie without being too obnoxious
DeleteSounds like a very sweet and powerful read. It reminds me of a family I know, and I might recommend it to them.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Joanne.
it probably ties things up too neatly, but the author hits the right notes, I think
DeleteI saw the trailer for this movie and wanted to see it...then never did. May have to check it out. Like Alex, I first thought of Mask.
ReplyDeleteIt's a sweet movie and read with a good message. The old "you can't judge a book by a cover". No, Augie doesn't look "normal", but he's smart, funny, kind, etc. He's a person!
DeleteAppears to be a good film also a film Joanne.
ReplyDeleteGood review.
Take care.
Yvonne.
yes, it translated well to film
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