"two thumbs up"
My 5th grader with Aspergers Loves this book and so does my 1st grader. they sleep with the audio playing. They relate to it because they too love star wars. I totally recommend this book!
"Wonder-ful"
My 10 year old daughter absolutely loves this story. This is a book she insited on reading again!
"A DEFINITE-MUST!!!"
The readers were GREAT...especially August. The characters in this story show the truth of kids. Yeah, sometimes they can be jerky, but, when it comes down to it, they are good...generally. This book shows what happens when you are true to yourself, and what happens when you look beyond the cover. A moving, heartwarming story about making the best out of a difficult situation.
"Stunning"
My only complaint: the cartoonish narration detracted from this otherwise sublime and poignant story. A wonderful book– one that everyone should read.
"How could I have not read this before?"
I admit that I love YA literature, so I was happy to have yet another book to read. However, this book blew me away. When Auggie is born, he has multiple birth defects--the kind that would make many people want to drop to their knees and cry. Yet his parents do neither. Accepting the child they have been given, they do their best, and their efforts are amply rewarded.
Yes, they are lucky in that Auggie's problems are physical, not mental. Had he have had mental issues, this story would have been completely different.
That being said, the social issues he faces are far to real, even in today's accepting society. I think all of us can remember the funny looking classmate that we picked on in elementary school. I'll bet few of us took the time to really get to know that person. We picked on him or her because that person was different and an easy target. Fortunately, Auggie meets a few kids who are willing to look beneath behind his face and see the true person underneath.
Even though this is a children's book, I realize that I have a lot to learn from books like this. While I wish no one would ever have to face the decisions and problems that come about from having a child like this, maybe this book will give them hope or comfort. And, for people like myself, I hope to learn to be more open and willing to learn about people who are different. I think I have been missing out on some amazing friendships...
I'm an audible addict. Plain and simple.
"Sweet Wonder"
This is not my typical genre; I read this book because it was our book club selection for the month. It turned out to be a bundle of "feel-good". The book made me laugh and even cry at times. Overall, it just may just be one of those books... I know it sounds cheesy but I might actually be a bit better person now, having read it. :)A sweet book that uplifts the reader/listener. Wonderful performances by the readers add to the story. Not over the top syrupy sweet; that type of thing normally puts me off. The moral of the story is very obviously laid out, but the author keeps it classy and I would still recommend as it doesn't go too far and get preachy. Well done.
I liked the narration for August Pullman a lot (the main character). It helped pull me into this little boy's world.
I'm a mom, daughter, wife, friend, sister, athlete, and teacher... Oh, and I'm lucky enough to have been born and raised in Hawaii. My reading tastes reflect all of this.
"Quite simply, a wonder of a book!"
Palacio has absolutely captured what it is like to be in 5th grade. Through various perspectives, we are able to see how challenging and rewarding it can be to be an ordinary kid (or adult) in the school environment.
Auggie, of course is the natural favorite, but he is complemented by such an amazing cast of characters and, thanks to Palacio's brilliant storytelling, we are lucky to get to know most of them quite well.
I don't want to give away the end, but I loved the principals' speech. And I loved his email exchange with Julian's mom. And I because I loved Auggie, I loved every scene in which I got to be by his side...
Yes! But it was also nice to break it into sections. There is a lot to think about and it's nice to have time to reflect.
"even my 7 year old was engrossed"
yes! my 7 year old son became engrossed with this story and it lead to some really thoughtful discussions. My whole family enjoyed it and was interested in hearing everyone's point of view. it is a story that sticks with you.
i read 'out of my mind' and loved it. i was torn until about halfway through which one i enjoyed more. 'wonder' finally won. it is entertaining and thought provoking. it was very real to life.
this was a great listen for a long car ride. when it was over, we wanted more.
"Great message"
Yes. It is so positive and real. My daughter and I listened to it in the car. When we would get to our destination we would sit in the car dreading to turn it off. It was funny and very sweet.
The message of kindness, love, forgiveness. Just a lovely book for any age.
He brings the characters alive.
Every part. It is a book that should be recommended for all pre-teens, and all educators.
Great job.
"Literature brought to life!"
Wonderfully engaging. Perfect audio book for your family. We enjoyed on a road trip.
The families relationship and moments surrounding the dog. The dogs reaction to Auggie - we can learn so much from animals.