Visit from “Wonder” Author RJ Palacio

R.J. Palacio, author of the book “Wonder,” spoke with fourth and fifth graders on September 27 in the Janet Root Theatre. She discussed how she became a writer as well as the themes and characters in her first book.

Mrs. Palacio was always passionate about drawing, reading and writing, and she encouraged Shorecrest students to find their passions and follow them. She studied graphic design and illustration in college and went to work as an illustrator for many well-known authors, such as Salman Rushdie.

An experience from her own life led to the 18-month journey of writing her first book. “Wonder” is the story of a fifth-grade boy who has a severe facial deformity and the love, courage and faith that it takes to deal with a handicap.

Mrs. Palacio discussed how her book is “about kindness and the impact of kindness on those around us. Through kindness, we can change the world.”

After her talk, there was time for some discussion, and Mrs. Palacio was impressed by the intelligent questions that the students asked. Some of the questions were in regard to her characters, writing from different points of view, and which character she was most like in fifth grade.

Mrs. Palacio graciously signed books for parents and students before heading out to lunch with Shorecrest parent Lori Crotts and her book club. We look forward to her next book and hope she will return to Shorecrest again to discuss it!