Exploring how R.J. Palacio's 'Wonder' transformed from a children's novel into a global movement teaching empathy through Auggie's story and the powerful message to 'Choose Kind'.

When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind. It suggests that being a good person isn't about being perfect—it's about making conscious choices to treat others with dignity and respect.
Creado por exalumnos de la Universidad de Columbia en San Francisco
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Creado por exalumnos de la Universidad de Columbia en San Francisco

Lena: Have you ever read a book that completely changed how you see the world? I recently finished "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio, and I can't stop thinking about it.
Miles: Oh, that's the one about Auggie, right? The boy with the facial differences who goes to school for the first time? It became this massive phenomenon—I heard it sold over 16 million copies worldwide.
Lena: Exactly! And what struck me most was how the story isn't just told from Auggie's perspective. We get to hear from six different narrators throughout the book, including his sister Via and his friends. It really shows how one person's journey affects everyone around them.
Miles: That's what makes it so powerful. Palacio was actually inspired to write it after an encounter she had with her own children. They saw a child with facial differences, and it sparked a conversation about kindness and acceptance.
Lena: You know, I think that's why it resonates with so many people. It's not just about Auggie's physical appearance—it's about how we all feel different sometimes and how simple acts of kindness can transform someone's experience. The book's unofficial motto is "Choose kind," and that message seems more important than ever.
Miles: Definitely. And what's fascinating is how the book spawned this whole "Choose Kind" movement in schools. There are even classroom guides and activities designed around the themes in the book. Let's explore how this seemingly simple children's novel became such a powerful tool for teaching empathy and acceptance.