White Bird: A Novel: Based on the Graphic Novel
#3 in Wonder Series
on Goodreads (1,056)
What’s inside...
Read the novelized version of the celebrated New York Times bestselling story of kindness and unrelenting courage in a time of war--inspired by the blockbuster phenomenon Wonder. Sara Blum lives an idyllic life with her adoring parents in Vichy France. But her world comes crashing down when the Nazi occupation separates the family and forces the young Jewish girl into hiding. Her classmate Julien and his family will risk everything to ensure her survival, and, together, Sara and Julien manage to find beauty in a secret world of their creation. First published as a graphic novel and now a major motion picture starring Helen Mirren and Gillian Anderson, R. J. Palacio's unforgettable story demonstrates the power of kindness to change hearts, build bridges, and even save lives in the darkest of times. Includes an 8-page photo insert and a discussion guide.
Character compass
Sara Blum
Julien
Julien'S Father
Discussion points
How do you think Sara felt when she was hiding during the war? Can you imagine what challenges she might have faced?
What do you think the story teaches us about courage and kindness?
Why is it important to remember and talk about painful times in history, like the Holocaust?
How did Julien change throughout the story, and what do you think influenced his decisions and actions?
What did you learn about the power of friendship and helping others in difficult times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences. Ask them to think about times they’ve needed to be brave or kind and discuss the outcomes of those moments. Use the book as an opportunity to teach broader life lessons about empathy, history, and moral choices. Highlight the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. Emphasize that it’s okay to have complex feelings about sad or challenging stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Through the protagonist's journey, the book shows how acts of kindness can significantly impact the lives of others, especially during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with peers who might be different or are facing difficulties, encouraging an inclusive and supportive environment at school or in other social settings.
Example Lesson: The importance of courage
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate bravery in the face of danger and adversity, teaching that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own fears and stand up for what is right, whether it’s dealing with bullies or speaking out against injustice.
Example Lesson: Consequences of prejudice
Explanation: The book addresses issues of prejudice and its impacts on individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of acceptance and unity.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background, and learn to challenge discriminatory behaviors.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'White Bird' adapt to life-threatening situations with resilience, an essential quality that helps them navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of resilience in overcoming personal obstacles, such as dealing with academic challenges or personal loss.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The story is shared through the lens of a grandmother recounting her past, showing how storytelling can be a powerful tool to teach and inspire.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to listen to and share stories from their own lives and those around them, enhancing their communication skills and emotional intelligence.