Student Question

How does August's mother react to his crying in Wonder?

Quick answer:

August's mother reacts to his crying with comfort and reassurance. After his difficult first day at school, August expresses distress about his appearance. His mother embraces him, insists he is not ugly, and kisses his face, trying to soothe him with loving words. Despite her efforts, August feels that her tenderness cannot change his physical appearance. Her reaction is one of unconditional love and support, attempting to uplift his spirits.

Expert Answers

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Auggie's had a pretty tough first day at school. Although he tells his mom that it wasn't as bad as he expected, he can't forget Julian's hurtful comments about Darth Sidious.

Later that evening, as his mom reads to him from The Hobbit, Auggie starts to cry, wanting to know why he has to be so ugly. His mom tries to comfort him, throwing her arms around him and telling him that he has nothing to be sorry about and that he isn't ugly. Auggie says that he is, but his mom once again reassures him that he isn't and kisses him all over his deformed face: the eyes that come down too far, the cheeks that look punched in, and what Auggie describes as his tortoise mouth. Auggie's mom means well, but Auggie knows that no amount of soft words and tender kisses will ever be able to change his face.

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