We're All Wonders

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 7, 2017

Review

Auggie, the inspirational hero of the bestselling children's novel Wonder is back, this time being featured in a picture book.

The focus on this spin off is strictly on Auggie and his dog Daisy. Although Augie looks different, he wants to be seen as just a regular kid. Everyone is different in their own way and everyone is also a wonder in their own way. We just need to make people see the world this way.

Although this is an excellent stand-alone picture book, it does not have the same depth as the original story. Without the voices of the other characters and the background story of Auggie's condition, the story feels a bit flat. However, the important message of acceptance and kindness is still adequately conveyed to the younger audience.

The illustrations were created by the author using a combination of painting with a stylus, an ipencil in Procreate for the iPad, and Photoshop. Original and colorful, the illustrations help convey the emotions of Auggie and help supplement the sparse text.

Although this picture book is not as strong as the original book, this picture book retelling is a strong addition to any library and carries with it important messages for a younger audience.

Overall Book Score: very good