I’ve always believed that books redefine the boundaries between reality and imagination. Wonder by R.J. Palacio is no different to my notion. Renowned author Palacio published this work in early 2012, and from there, it has changed the generational outlook on the relationship between facial deformities and prejudice. A tale about a young boy named August, or “Auggie”, Pullman diagnosed with Treacher Collins syndrome, this novel explores various heartwrenching concepts such as identity, power, and injustice.
His story is shared through the perspective of those closest to him, and this gives readers a better glimpse of his struggle to accept himself, particularly in unforeseen circumstances like at school or even familial interactions. To highlight, throughout the beginning, Auggie has a Padawan-style braid. As the story continues, it’s revealed that the protagonist uses the braid as a safety net for his identity as it’s one of the few physical features he can control. Once Auggie cuts his braid, it signifies to readers that he’s willing to define his identity beyond physical traits. Rather, Auggie can
embody his personality without shielding himself through trivial hairstyles. Unfortunately, Auggie only came to this realization because of the innumerable amount of prejudice he faced from classmates through verbal and physical abuse. Unfortunately, encounters between those who are disordered and those who are can be detrimental, as seen in Palacio’s work.
Reflecting on Wonder, I’m once again reminded of Adichie’s Ted Talk, Dangers of a Single Story. Far too often did strangers use their assumptions to define August Pullman’s story. It’s this behavior that results in negative portrayal. Adichie perfectly documents this feeling by saying, “ She had felt sorry for me even before she saw me.” Likewise, even those closest to Auggie like his family, with the exemption of his sister, immediately resulted in pity.
Wonder continues to leave me pondering. Now, I’ve acknowledged how Palacio wanted his readers to fixate how materialism and eurocentrism deteriorates societal progression. As depicted in the novel, humans see differences as motivation for garnering power over others or for inflicting injustice. This piece challenges readers to be mindful of microaggressions against targeted groups, hopefully encouraging conversations that move towards positivity.
