Shall we make a new rule for life… always to try to be a little kinder than is necessary?

The Little White Bird by J M Barry

It’s funny how the most powerful quote in a fiction book can be from another book, like in the case of ‘Wonder’ by RJ Palacio. Some readers may find the above quoted line by J M Barry to be the most moving bit in the novel. Although, that is by no means implying that Palacio is not a talented author, far from it.

In ‘Wonder’, the author has given the world a new book to cherish, without using magic potions, flying brooms and teleportation wardrobes. This story about August Pullman, a boy born with a rare facial condition, is sweet, emotional and warm. Just the kind that makes for great bed-time reading. Spread over several short chapters, we are pulled into the home-tutored August’s new adventure – going to middle-school with other kids. School is never easy, but with a rare face like Auggie, will he find more bullies than buddies? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Written in easy English and told from the perspectives of different characters, it’s a breezy story to read. Although, stylistically, most of the kids sound pretty much the same, even though the author does try to make the writing slightly different each time some a different voice takes over to carry the tale forward. But it doesn’t really affect the reading experience, it’s just something that might strike avid readers.

With a loving family at the center of it all, ‘Wonder’ is all about love, friendships and kindness. Some of you might have already seen the movie adaptation of the book starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay, which was just as sweet as the book. While the Pullman family story is primarily meant for younger readers, it’s an emotional ride that would win over an older demographic too.

It’s a 5/5 from me.

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