Where to start withWonder
2 versions · originally a book, 2013
Themes: Bullying, Acceptance, Disability, Friendship, Empathy.
Start with Wonder (R. J. Palacio, 2013) — the book. Wonder exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a book in 2013; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Wonder explores the profound emotional impact of choosing kindness when confronting the challenges of living with facial differences.
✦ Most fans start here
Wonder (2013)
The original novel
✦ Start hereWonder
R. J. Palacio · Book · 2013
The 2013 book Wonder provides an intimate, internal look at August Pullman’s perspective, offering readers a rich, nuanced exploration of his thoughts and the complex experiences of those around him.

2017 film
Wonder
Film · 2017
The 2017 film Wonder translates the narrative into a visual medium, effectively capturing the interpersonal dynamics of August’s school life and the immediate, tangible reactions of his peers and family.
Common questions
Should I read the book Wonder before watching the 2017 movie?
Reading the 2013 book Wonder before watching the 2017 movie is recommended. The book provides deeper insight into the internal perspectives of the characters, which enhances the experience of the film adaptation. Both versions tell the same core story, but the book offers additional narrative detail.
Is the Wonder movie a faithful adaptation of the book?
The 2017 movie Wonder is considered a faithful adaptation of the 2013 book. It captures the central themes and emotional arc of the original story. While the film condenses certain plot points for the screen, it remains consistent with the narrative established in the original book.
What order should I consume the Wonder book and movie?
The recommended order is to read the 2013 book Wonder first, then watch the 2017 movie. Starting with the book allows you to fully engage with the author's original vision. Watching the movie afterward provides a visual representation of the story that complements your initial reading experience.
How long is the Wonder movie compared to the book?
The 2017 movie Wonder is a feature-length film that adapts the events of the 2013 book. While the book contains extensive written chapters covering various viewpoints, the movie distills these events into a standard film runtime to present the story in a concise, visual format.