Reflecting on #TheWonderOfWonder

 Just before Easter break my students and I finished our third read aloud of the school year: Wonder by RJ Palacio. Each book we have read together as a class has had an impact on them, but I think Wonder has had the biggest impact.

After we finished the book, I made this poster to hang outside my classroom:

But then some of my students made this poster as well to hang outside the library:

But I have also made sure that Choose Kind is not just something that is shouted at students in the form of a giant poster. I also have left subtle reminders around the junior high hallway and in my classroom:

At the drinking fountain...

...On our book quote wall

...even our classroom light switch reminds students of the importance of being kind

Another way I've noticed the impact Wonder has had on my students is their amazing reflections they've written about, particularly the question I wrote as follows:

Many people who criticize Wonder say the ending is too perfect and that real life stories just don't end that happily. What do you think of how the story ended?

Naturally there were a few students who agreed with the critics, but on the whole, I received responses mostly like these:

 

 And then there is my favorite response to the question, how do you personally relate to the characters and situations in Wonder?

So my only question to you is: if you haven't read this book yet, what are you waiting for?