If your students enjoyed R.J. Palacio’s touching and inspiring story “Wonder,” these 17 literary gems will capture their hearts and fuel their love for literature. Exploring themes of friendship, empathy, resilience, and courage, these books are a must-have for your classroom library.
1. “Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper
2. “El Deafo” by Cece Bell
3. “Counting by 7s” by Holly Goldberg Sloan
4. “Rules” by Cynthia Lord
5. “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
6. “Mockingbird” by Kathryn Erskine
7. “Pax” by Sara Pennypacker
8. “The Thing About Jellyfish” by Ali Benjamin
9. “Rain Reign” by Ann M. Martin
10. “Because of Mr. Terupt” by Rob Buyea
11. “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate
12. “Wishtree” by Katherine Applegate
13. “Absolutely Almost” by Lisa Graff
14. “Posted” by John David Anderson
15. “A Boy Called Bat” by Elana K Arnold
16. “Save Me a Seat” by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan
17. “Inside Out & Back Again” by Thanhha Lai
Each of these books offers a different perspective on the complexity of human emotions, personal growth, and the transformational power of kindness and friendship, just like R.J Palacio’s “Wonder.” Adding these touching stories to your curriculum or recommending them as independent reads will give students the opportunity to expand their understanding of unique experiences, inviting empathy and compassion into their lives.
With this collection of great reads, you will inspire a new generation of book lovers who appreciate the power of stories to break barriers, build connections and make the world a kinder place.
