White Bird: A Wonder Story
White Bird: A Wonder Story is a graphic novel written and illustrated by R.J. Palacio. The book is a prequel to her best-selling novel, Wonder, which tells the story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream school for the first time. In White Bird, Palacio expands on the story of Julian Albans, the main antagonist of Wonder, by exploring the history of his grandfather, who survived the Holocaust. The book was published by Knopf Books for Young Readers on October 1, 2019, and has received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and beautiful illustrations.
The story of White Bird:
White Bird: A Wonder Story is a captivating and emotional story that takes readers on a journey through the experiences of Julian's grandfather, who is a Jewish boy living in France during World War II. The story begins with the Nazi invasion of France, and the family's desperate attempt to flee the country to avoid being captured by the Nazis. The grandfather, named Julien, is separated from his parents and sister during the escape, and he is forced to go into hiding with a family who risks their own lives to protect him. Throughout the story, Julien experiences fear, loss, and hope, as he struggles to survive and find his family amidst the chaos of the war.
The themes of White Bird:
White Bird: A Wonder Story explores themes of courage, kindness, and the power of human connection. The story highlights the bravery of those who risked their own lives to protect others during the war, and it emphasizes the importance of treating all people with kindness and respect, regardless of their differences. The book also underscores the message that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the possibility of finding joy and beauty in life.
The illustrations of White Bird:
The illustrations in White Bird: A Wonder Story are breathtaking and add depth and emotion to the story. Palacio's use of color and shading create a sense of mood and atmosphere that complements the narrative perfectly. The characters are depicted with great attention to detail, and their facial expressions convey the emotions they are feeling, making it easy for readers to connect with them on a personal level.
Why White Bird is a must-read:
White Bird: A Wonder Story is a beautifully written and illustrated graphic novel that tells an important and powerful story. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of kindness and empathy. The story is appropriate for readers of all ages, and it is an excellent resource for educators who want to teach their students about the Holocaust and the importance of standing up against hate and discrimination.
Also Check Autumn binge-worthy shows on Netflix
Conclusion:
White Bird: A Wonder Story is a remarkable graphic novel that tells a poignant and powerful story of survival, courage, and hope. Palacio's beautiful illustrations and vivid storytelling bring the characters to life, and the themes of the book are relevant and important for readers of all ages. Anyone who reads this book will be deeply moved and inspired by the bravery and resilience of the characters, and the message of kindness and empathy that permeates the story.