Friday, March 14, 2014

March 14 - Wonder by RJ Palacio

As I read about 10-year old Auggie and his family and then about how he is treated at school in a variety of ways by a variety of people, I ended the book learning a valuable lesson. I must work harder every day, especially as a teacher, to be kind to all.

I read Wonder for the first time during the summer of 2012. I am currently reading it to my 4th graders. Today we started Part Four told from Jack's point of view. I love thinking aloud about the main character, as well as, the many secondary characters with their own important subplots. It has lots of flashbacks and events told by multiple perspectives and I'm able to show my students how we have to work hard to hold onto so much information. Working hard while reading is a new concept for my 4th graders. So is always being kind. I hope to accomplish lots through this read-aloud!

If you get the chance, I think you will find Wonder worth your time!

I am reminded of Mark Twain who said, "The man who doesn't read great books is no better than the man who can't read at all." Wonder is a GREAT book!

7 comments:

  1. Last year I did a read aloud book club for teachers and this was one of our books. I love turning adults on to great kid lit as much as I do the kids.

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  2. I am reading this to my children right now! As the parent of a child who is blind, I have a mission to cultivate kindness and compassion in the hearts of the children with whom I come in contact. For Victor's sake, and for the sakes of all children with visible and invisible disabilities, weaknesses, and challenges.

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  3. I love this book! Have read it aloud several times!

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  4. This was our first read aloud of the year. My kids loved it. It is a part of them and me. I hope the lessons taught will filter into their lives. I certainly have times when I refer to the actions of Summer, Jack and Julian. A great read. Enjoy!

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  5. When I read this book to 4th graders last year for the first time, it turned out to be the best read aloud experience I ever had!

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  6. I read Wonder over the winter break. I had a similar reaction: It made me want to be kinder to everyone. Empathy. Good stuff.

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