In spite of the fact that this book is a young adult novel, it was definitely a good read for me, a seasoned older reader. August is a young boy entering school for the first time as a fifth grader. He has a genetic abnormality that caused his facial features to be extremely deformed. In fact, he even draws himself in the story as a duck. His principal admires the drawing because Auggie drew himself as the ugly duckling who becomes a swan. Auggie says no I drew myself as a duck because I look like a duck! The story is about his journey through the school year, facing the difficult task of adapting to his new environment and trying to make friends. Some children are instantly turned off by his appearance, but others quickly befriend him. I could relate because a young boy with the same syndrome attended my church some years ago. I have to admit, he frightened me and my children. I wish I had read this story then. I would have reached out to this boy and encouraged my children to do the
...same. This boy, like Auggie, is really just ordinary and wants the same thing in life we all want-love and acceptance. Excellent story for all readers.
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