Book Suggestion... WONDER by RJ Palacio

I absolutely LOVED this book.  In fact, I loved it so much I made ALL of my kids (Brayden who is 9, Ashley who is 13 and Kayla who is 17) read it together with me.  This is a children's novel but I think the message is awesome for anyone, adults or children.

This sweet story is about a 5th grader names August Pullman who has a severe facial deformity.  He heads to public school in 5th grade for the first time.  It is a simple story about how he survives.  There are sections that are told from the perspective of Auggie, his sister, his friends, and his sister's boyfriend.  I love the characters in this book.  Every one of them are so simple yet so deep.  This story teaches about understanding, love and being able to accept ourselves as we are.  I love being able to talk to my kids about the actions they take and the impact it has on others.  It makes you realize we have the power to change lives!  

And, just when I thought I really couldn't stand the bully at the end of the book, I found this little gem:

This is a very quick little story that is soooo worth reading!  It is basically the story from the "bully".  I can't give to much away because it is such a short book so just trust me on this one, it is WORTH THE READ!  

In a world so full of complicated competitiveness, it is refreshing to be able to discuss this book and it's simple but VALUABLE lessons.