We’re All Wonders is a story about Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face, and his beloved dog, Daisy. The author shows readers what it’s like to live in Auggie’s world—a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he’s not always seen that way. We’re All Wonders may be Auggie’s story, but it taps into every child’s longing to belong, and to be seen for who they truly are. It’s the perfect way for families and educators to talk about empathy and kindness with young children.
Discussion Questions
Understanding the story
- Who is Auggie and what makes him special?
- How does Auggie feel when people stare at him or treat him differently?
- What does the word “wonder” mean in the story?
- Why do you think the author says “we’re all wonders?”
Kindness
- What are some examples of kindness in the book?
- How do small acts of kindness make a big difference for Auggie?
- Can you think of a time when someone was kind to you? How did it make you feel?
- What are some kind choices the kids in the story could make?
Inclusion & Belonging
- What does it mean to include someone?
- Why is it important that everyone feels like they belong?
- How might someone feel if they are left out or ignored?
- What can we do if we see someone sitting alone or being left out?
Making Connections
- How are you the same as Auggie? How are you different?
- What is one way you can be a wonder at school or at home?
- What does choosing kindness look like in our classroom (or in our home)?
- If everyone chose kindness, how would our world change?
Activities
- Ask each reader to write and draw something that makes them a wonder—something special or unique about them. Encourage them to choose something their classmates may not already know.
- Have readers leave their names off their papers. Collect the drawings and share them one at a time with the group. As you hold up each drawing, invite the group to guess who they think the “wonder” might be. After a quick vote, ask the real wonder to stand up.
- To make the moment even more empowering, invite the student to say, “I am the wonder!” as they stand.
- The pictures of Auggie’s classmates reveal their reaction to his facial difference. Create small groups and ask them to create five questions that are appropriate to ask Auggie. Remind participants that they should choose words that are kind and gentle.
- Invite a teacher who works with students with intellectual disabilities—or a Unified pair—to visit your class. Ask them to share how students with disabilities are the same as their peers, how they may be different, and what classmates can do to help ensure everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included.
- Find Out What Makes Your Group Wonderful!
- Have everyone sit together in a circle. Start the game by gently tossing a beanbag or soft ball to someone and asking a simple question, such as “What’s your favorite color?” or “What’s your favorite holiday?”
- The person who catches the beanbag answers the question, then tosses it to someone else and asks a new question.
- Encourage everyone to share something about themselves so the group can see how many different—and WONDERful—qualities make us all special.
- Watch the movie Wonder. It is rated PG and available on major streaming platforms or for rental.