Wonder Novel: Comprehension and Analysis
Wonder: Discussion Questions and Answers
Home (p.276): Kindness and Support
Auggie’s mom told him: “There are always going to be jerks in the world, Auggie, but I really believe that there are more good people than bad people, and the good people watch out for and take care of each other.” Do you agree? Give examples from your life to support your answer.
I think this is true because sometimes you have days when everything goes wrong and you feel bad about yourself, but you always find people around you who help you keep fighting. This happens to me when I get a bad grade in the exams and I think that I do not serve to study.
Bear (p.281): New Beginnings After Loss
Do you think Bear will be good for Auggie and his family, or is it too soon after Daisy’s death? Explain your feelings.
By the way, Auggie talks about the new puppy. I’d say it is a good idea to have a new pet. They won’t forget about Daisy, but if you are used to having a pet at home, having a new one is better than not having any.
The Shift (p.282): Changing Perceptions
How did things shift at school?
Everyone had heard about what had happened with the seventh graders, so suddenly Auggie wasn’t known for what he’d always been known for, but for the other thing that had happened. Now that Amos, Henry, and Miles had protected Auggie, he was different to them as if he was one of them. Even the jocks would greet Auggie in the corridor and call him “little dude.”
In addition, Amos became super popular, and Julian, because he missed the whole thing, was out of the loop.
Ducks (p.284): Self-Perception and Symbolism
What do you think Mr. Tushman thought the symbolism was for Auggie’s choice of a duck for a self-portrait?
Mr. Tushman thought that Auggie had drawn himself as a duck because of the story of the duckling that turns into a swan, but Auggie said that it was just because he thought he looked like a duck.
The Last Precept (p.288): Lasting Impressions
Do you think Mr. Browne gets a lot of postcards back from students? Would you remember to send one? Why (not)?
Maybe he does because he is an inspiring teacher. On the other hand, I don’t know for sure because many students forget about school, books, and teachers when summer comes. If I were grateful to the teacher, I’d probably remember to send one.
The Drop-Off (p.289): Letting Go and Acceptance
What does it symbolize that Auggie is wearing his hair shorter than he ever has? Do you agree with what Auggie’s dad did with the astronaut helmet? Was it best for Auggie? Explain.
It means that he no longer uses his hair to cover his face, which is good because he accepts the way he looks. I agree with Auggie’s dad throwing out the astronaut helmet because it was a way to make him grow up and not be seen even in a worse way than he already was. His dad told him that he loves his face and missed seeing it.
Take Your Seats (p.294): Navigating Adolescence
It seems Jack’s got a crush on Summer, everyone’s growing up. How hard do you think things will get for Auggie when the kids his age really start dating?
It might be hard because then his appearance will play an important role again. At the same time, since his classmates will have known him for a while, he might also date some kids because he has a very nice personality.
A Simple Thing (p.298): The Power of Kindness
In Mr. Tushman’s speech, he said: “Wherever you are, whenever you can, if you try to act a little kinder than is necessary, the world really would be a better place.” Do you agree or disagree with his statement? Is it really possible for such a small thing to make such a big impact? Explain.
Of course, it is possible to make a big impact on those around you by the way you act. It is not enough to be kind, but each of us must make an effort to give a little more, help others, support a friend, show your friendship, love, and protect the people you love… because if you do all these things, you will be a better person.