A Wonder Story
by R. J. Palacio
Amazon Description:
From the very first day Auggie and Julian met in the pages of the #1 New York Times bestseller Wonder, it was clear that they were never going to be friends, with Julian treating Auggie like he had the plague. And while Wonder told Auggie's story through six different viewpoints, Julian's perspective was never shared. Readers could only guess what he was thinking.
Until now The Julian Chapter will finally reveal the bully's side of the story. Why is Julian so unkind to Auggie? And does he have a chance for redemption?
My Thoughts:
The Julian Chapter is a powerful and poignant look inside the life of the boy that brought Auggie so much pain. Julian, like nearly all antagonists, has plenty of pain of his own. In this latest Wonder story, Ms. Palacio reveals Julian's own back story, and with it, a reminder that life's challenges are never as simple as they seem. While not condoning the bully's action, this novel does bring about a change of heart for Julian, and with it remorse, and ultimately redemption. The author skillfully brings Julian to that revelation by weaving a forgotten family secret, with ties to World War II, into her masterpiece. If ever there was a middle grade novel that encouraged a path of peace, it would be The Julian Chapter. I would highly recommend R. J. Palacio's latest Wonder story to readers of all ages.
