"I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse."

August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Now, starting at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face.

Beginning from Auggie’s point of view and expanding to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others, a portrait emerges of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance. In a world where bullying among young people is an epidemic, this is a refreshing new narrative full of heart and hope.

R.J. Palacio has called her debut novel “a meditation on kindness” —indeed, every reader will come away with a greater appreciation for the simple courage of friendship.