Wonder author, R.J. Palacio, visits the BCS Mock Newbery Club!

"It was really cool to have the author here to talk about the book." (Rory S.)

"I thought it was really great.  Especially people asking really distinct questions about the book’s characters.” ( Kate S.)

“Made me look at the story from a different perspective.  I saw a lot more of why in the book.” (Henry S.)  

“It made Wonder an even better book for me!” (Ben S.)

This is just a sampling of students' enthusiastic responses to the author's visit.

R.J. Palacio (second from left top row) with the BCS Mock Newbery club grades 5-8

Wonder was awarded the top honor by this year's BCS Mock Newbery club and spirits were high in anticipation of Mrs. Palacio's visit. Here are a few excerpts from her responses to student questions:

Why didn’t you tell part of the story from Julian’s perspective?

"As a mom and a reader, I didn’t want to give a bully a platform to talk. There would be kids who looked like Augie and I didn’t want them to hear something mean especially since it wouldn't advance the story."

Are you going to write a sequel?

"It doesn’t seem like that kind of book. The fact is that we know as the reader, that life is not going to be easy for August. I choose to end the book on a moment of triumph but we know that’s just one moment of his life and he’ll face many more challenges. Hopefully, he will find enough Summers and Jacks that he’s gonna be okay. That’s the point of the story."

Is there another book on the way?

Yes but we didn’t expect this book to take off like it did. It’s been a great opportunity to travel across the country and talk to middle schooler’s about choosing kind...."

Dear Mrs. Palacio,

As a group, we would like to say a big THANK YOU for taking the time out of your busy schedule to drop by and talk to us. We are all eagerly awaiting your next book! No pressure...