‘Wonder‘ by R. J. Palacio is a contemporary novel. While it doesn’t delve into a specific historical period, it addresses timeless themes of acceptance, empathy, and resilience. The story is set in the present day, primarily revolving around August Pullman’s experiences as he enters fifth grade at Beecher Prep. However, to understand the novel’s historical context, it’s essential to consider the broader societal changes and discussions around disabilities, inclusion, and bullying.
Historical Context
“Wonder” was published in 2012, a period marked by significant developments in social awareness, particularly concerning bullying, disability rights, and the inclusion of diverse voices in literature. This period witnessed a surge in movements to create safe and inclusive environments in schools and workplaces, with a growing emphasis on empathy, mental health, and social justice.
The early 2000s were a time when anti-bullying campaigns became more prevalent in response to growing concerns about the impact of bullying on mental health. Initiatives such as the “It Gets Better” project (started in 2010) sought to address the challenges faced by marginalized groups, like LGBTQ+ youth and those with disabilities. These cultural shifts likely influenced the themes in “Wonder,” which centers on the experiences of a boy with a facial difference navigating the challenges of mainstream school life.
The socio-political climate of the early 2010s was increasingly focused on inclusivity and equality. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), though enacted in 1990, continued to influence public policy and societal attitudes toward accessibility and the rights of individuals with disabilities. The period also saw an increasing emphasis on anti-discrimination laws and policies, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards acceptance and understanding of diversity.
During this time, the internet and social media were becoming powerful tools for raising awareness and mobilizing support for social causes. This digital landscape allowed stories like “Wonder” to reach a wide audience and foster discussions around the themes of kindness, empathy, and the treatment of those perceived as different. The rise of online communities also provided a platform for individuals with disabilities to share their experiences and advocate for their rights, further contextualizing the book’s message.
Author’s Background
R. J. Palacio, born Raquel Jaramillo, is a first-generation American born to Colombian immigrant parents in New York City on July 13, 1963. She studied at the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan and the Parsons School of Design. Before writing “Wonder,” Palacio worked as a graphic designer and art director, creating book covers for various publishers. Her artistic background influenced her understanding of visual storytelling, which she later translated into her writing.
Palacio was inspired to write “Wonder” after a personal encounter with a child who had a craniofacial disorder. The incident, coupled with the song “Wonder” by Natalie Merchant playing on the car radio as she left the scene, deeply affected her, prompting her to write a story. Palacio mentioned in interviews that she wanted to create a book that her sons could read and learn from, particularly about the importance of treating everyone with kindness and empathy, regardless of their appearance.
Cultural Context
“Wonder” reflects cultural norms surrounding physical appearance, social acceptance, and the challenges of fitting in. The book explores how society often values conventional beauty standards and how individuals who do not conform to these standards are treated. Through August’s experiences, Palacio critiques the superficial judgments often made based on appearance and highlights the importance of looking beyond the surface to understand a person’s true character.
The novel also critiques contemporary culture’s obsession with appearances and tendency to marginalize those who look different from the norm. By portraying the struggles of Auggie Pullman, a child with a facial disorder, the book challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions and behaviors toward others. It also reflects a growing cultural awareness of the need for inclusivity and the importance of teaching empathy from a young age. The novel’s emphasis on kindness and understanding resonates with broader societal movements advocating diversity and acceptance.
The book is influenced by contemporary movements such as the anti-bullying campaigns and the push for greater inclusivity in schools and communities. The Choose Kind movement, inspired by “Wonder,” encourages individuals to perform acts of kindness and promotes a more inclusive society. This movement aligns with broader cultural trends emphasizing the importance of empathy, social justice, and the celebration of diversity.
Literary Context
“Wonder” belongs to the middle-grade fiction genre, characterized by stories that tackle real-world issues in a way accessible to younger readers. The novel follows the conventions of the genre by focusing on a young protagonist facing challenges related to identity, belonging, and personal growth. Middle-grade fiction often includes themes of friendship, family, and moral development, all central to the novel.
The book is influenced by the realism movement in children’s literature. This emphasizes the portrayal of everyday life as it is. The novel’s realistic depiction of August’s struggles and triumphs, as well as its exploration of complex social issues, aligns with the goals of realism to present an authentic and relatable narrative. Additionally, the book reflects the influence of contemporary trends in children’s literature that prioritize diversity and inclusion.
“Wonder” can be compared to other middle-grade novels like “Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper and “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt, which also deal with protagonists who face challenges related to physical or cognitive differences. Like “Wonder,” these books aim to foster empathy and understanding among readers, encouraging them to see the world from different perspectives. While the three novels explore the challenges faced by children with physical or cognitive differences, they do so in distinct ways. “Wonder” uses multiple perspectives to show the impact of August’s facial differences on his community, emphasizing the importance of kindness and empathy. “Out of My Mind” focuses on Melody, a girl with cerebral palsy, highlighting her intellectual depth and challenging stereotypes about disabilities. In contrast, “Fish in a Tree” addresses dyslexia through the story of Ally, emphasizing the significance of early recognition and support for learning differences. Each book uniquely contributes to fostering understanding and acceptance of diversity in young readers.
Critical Reception
Since its publication, “Wonder” has received widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, handling of difficult themes, and ability to resonate with readers of all ages. Critics have praised the novel’s accessible writing style and impactful message about kindness and acceptance. The book has been lauded for engaging young readers in meaningful discussions about empathy, bullying, and the treatment of different people.
The novel has had a significant impact on both literature and culture. It has become a staple in middle-grade literature, often used in educational settings to teach lessons about empathy, inclusion, and the importance of kindness. The book has also influenced broader cultural conversations about disability, diversity, and how society treats individuals who are perceived as different. The novel’s impact extended beyond the literary world, sparking movements like the Choose Kind campaign, which promotes acts of kindness and inclusion.
“Wonder” was Palacio’s debut novel, but its success was groundbreaking. Upon its release, it quickly became a bestseller, earning numerous awards and recognition for its powerful storytelling and positive impact on readers. It has sold over 15 million copies since its publication. The book was embraced by educators, parents, and children alike, and its themes of kindness and acceptance resonated deeply with a wide audience. Palacio has since written additional works set in the “Wonder” universe, including “Auggie & Me” and “We’re All Wonders,” which continue to explore themes of empathy and acceptance. These works have solidified her reputation as an author committed to fostering a more compassionate society through literature.
Modern Relevance
The themes of “Wonder,” such as bullying, acceptance, and the challenges of being different, remain highly relevant today. Schools and educational institutions have embraced the novel as a valuable tool for promoting empathy and anti-bullying initiatives. The book’s themes align with critical educational goals, encouraging students to embrace diversity, cultivate kindness, and stand against discrimination. Teachers have integrated it into curricula as a springboard for discussing compassion and respecting others. Furthermore, the novel has extended its impact beyond literature, inspiring the creation of initiatives and campaigns centered around kindness and acceptance. The Choose Kind movement, inspired by the book, encourages individuals to perform acts of kindness and create a more compassionate world. This ripple effect has reached communities globally, emphasizing the transformative power of literature to drive positive social change.
The book’s enduring popularity and use in educational settings demonstrate its continued relevance and impact on readers of all ages. This novel has also received several awards and honors for its impactful storytelling and positive impact. In addition to being a New York Times Best Seller, “Wonder” won the Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award, Maine Student Book Award, Rebecca Caudill Young Readers’ Book Award, and the California Young Reader Medal for Intermediate Grades.
In 2017, “Wonder” was adapted into a movie. Directed by Stephen Chbosky, the film stars Jacob Tremblay as August and Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson as August’s parents. The adaptation retained the novel’s emotional depth and poignant messages, captivating audiences with its powerful portrayal of acceptance, empathy, and the beauty of kindness. The movie retained the emotional depth and poignant messages of the novel, captivating audiences with its powerful portrayal of the importance of kindness and the beauty of diversity.
