More about Wonder

I was recently asked to comment on this article about Wonder by RJ Palacio. My thoughts:

I think that the book is still amazing and wonderful for its kindness and respect, and one word should not change that. I very much dislike words like the r-word and the h-word, and racial slurs like the n-word and slurs about homosexuality like the f-word. That aside, it is sometimes appropriate to use them in literature because they can be a powerful part of a story and a message. Words appropriate in literature are not always appropriate in conversation. I can imagine many reasons that the author would have intentionally used the r-word, and even though the word is not acceptable in everyday conversation, some of those reasons would have justified the use of the word in my opinion. However, the reason that the author gives is lacking. Sometimes people are not the best that they can be, but there are many other words that Auggie could have used to convey his point, even with regard to the fact that he is a modern preteen; if the author was trying to make a point, she could have allowed Auggie's mother to correct him. But maybe part of the point was that the mother and child DIDN'T chose appropriate words because things like that happen in real life. Sometimes unpleasant words and actions are a part of great lives and great books, so I don't necessarily avoid books that use inappropriate words as long as the overall message is positive. Wonder is a great book, and I think it should definitely still be read because it presents a message of kindness, respect and empathy towards everyone.

Wonder

What a great way to start my Mock Newbery reading for 2013!  As a bonus this book might also be a candidate for the Schneider Family Book Award.  I really liked this book. It was interesting how each part was told from a different character's point of view because you got to hear what different people thought about things. The way Auggie described the way people look at  him (trying not to stare, staring, looking away quickly, looking at you like you're a freak, etc.) was surprisingly accurate. People don't usually notice those looks unless they are on the receiving end or, like Via, close to someone who is. When thinking about the Schneider Family Book Award, I reread Auggie's Principal's letter where he says Auggie doesn't have a disability.  I think that is a good example of how this book challenges the way people define and think about kids (and people) who have disabilities and difference, and that kind of challenging thinking is GREAT!  I think anyone who reads this book will love it.