Auggie Pullman's Transformation: Analyzing Wonder's Ending

Analyzing Auggie Pullman's Triumph: Wonder Chapters 39-42

Mr. Tushman's Speech and Auggie's Reaction (p. 302)

Awards (p. 302)

Why do you think Mr. Tushman’s voice kept cracking during his speech announcing the award winner? How do you think Auggie felt at the end of this chapter? What do you think is going through his mind?

Mr. Tushman was emotional because he knew everything Auggie had gone through that year, and he genuinely felt Auggie deserved this recognition.

Auggie likely felt a mix of emotions:

• Shock: He probably did not expect to receive the award.
• Happiness and Pride: People were not only accepting him but also acknowledging his positive qualities and contributions.

He was probably wondering why he had received this award, reflecting on the journey that led to this moment of public affirmation.

Auggie's Award Acceptance and Julian's Feelings (p. 305)

Floating (p. 305)

Auggie is surprised and honored to be chosen for the award. Thousands of thoughts go through his head as he walks to the front of the auditorium and faces the crowd. What is one major fear/thought that does not cross his mind? What do you think Julian and his family are feeling during Mr. Tushman’s speech and while Auggie is getting this reaction from the crowd while accepting his award? Explain.

One major fear that does not cross Auggie's mind is the fear of showing his face to such a large audience. By this point, his focus is entirely on the honor and the positive reaction, signifying a major step in his self-acceptance.

Julian and his family are likely feeling intense resentment and anger. They probably feel disgusted by the attention Auggie is receiving, especially since Julian had actively campaigned against him. Julian effectively “lost” the social conflict he initiated, as Auggie is now universally celebrated and loved by his peers.

The Picture-Taking Scene: Comparing Changes (p. 307)

Pictures (p. 307)

How does the picture-taking scene show how much the kids have changed when you compare it to “Recess” and “Plague” at the beginning of the year? Explain.

The picture-taking scene powerfully illustrates the profound change in the students' attitudes:

• Auggie's Confidence: Auggie was smiling a big, happy smile, completely unconcerned about his appearance.
• Peer Acceptance: A large number of classmates wanted to take pictures with him.
• Physical Closeness: They were all laughing and squeezing in tight against each other. Crucially, no one seemed to care if Auggie’s face was next to theirs or not, a stark contrast to the fear and avoidance demonstrated during the “Recess” and “Plague” incidents earlier in the year.

The Walk Home: Auggie's Mom's Meaning (p. 309)

The Walk Home (p. 309)

Auggie’s mom thanks him for “everything you’ve given us. You really are a wonder, Auggie”. What do you think she means by this?

When Auggie's mom calls him a “wonder,” she means that he is an extraordinary person. While raising him has been challenging due to his medical condition and appearance, Auggie has provided his parents with invaluable opportunities:

• Personal Growth: His existence forced his parents to grow, demonstrating greater empathy, resilience, and unconditional love.
• Joy and Love: Auggie has brought immense joy and love to his family, enriching their lives profoundly.