There are so many wonderful things I can say about this young adult fictional novel by R.J. Palacio. August or Auggie, the main character, is a child with major facial deformations. He has been home schooled for years, but the year featured in this book highlights his first year in a real school. The story is full of ups and downs. Students wrangle with accepting August and some torture him. August wrangles with how to fit in, how to be "different", trusting new people and even having that trust broken.
It is a book of firsts.
It is a book of challenges.
It is a testament to courage, grace, hope and perseverance.
I am planning to use this book, along with two other books, to lead a unit on empathy with my Step Up Class I teach during our elective block on Tuesdays and Fridays. We are going to explore the many themes, write some of our own precepts like Mr. Browne's (teacher in the book), and put together media presentations about the book. I cannot wait for the discussions we will have about the richness of this book.
What is a favorite book of yours that teaches and inspires?
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