The Julian Chapter: A Wonder Story by R.J. Palacio
Random House Children’s Publishing
Publication Date: May 13, 2014
Date Read: May 14, 2014
I received an advance reader
edition of this book from Random House Children’s Publishing and Net
Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
5 Stars
I was one of the many people who fell completely in love with the book Wonder, which told the story of a boy who was born with a facial deformity. I fell in love with Auggie as I devoured Wonder in one sitting. In that book, Julian was the bully at the school that made things difficult for Auggie. When I saw that Julian’s story was being released, I jumped at the opportunity to read it.
This work is short, approximately 84 pages, and can easily be read in a single sitting. The entire story is told from Julian’s point of view. The first part of the story goes over some of the events that happen in Wonder. After reading Julian’s point of view, I can understand why he acted as he did towards Auggie. There were times that I found myself feeling badly for Julian because of the lessons he was being taught by his family.
Julian finds himself spending time with his grandmother in France in the second part of the book. He tells his grandmother the events that had happened during the school year. After hearing what Julian tells her, she tells Julian her own story which is the most powerful part of this piece. His grandmother’s story helps Julian and his family see the events concerning Auggie differently. While I was not convinced that his parents turn around was permanent, Julian’s remorse seemed authentic.
I would definitely recommend this short story to anyone who enjoyed Wonder. Because this story is so closely tied to that book, I would recommend that Wonder be read prior to reading this piece. I look forward to future works from this author.
