Wonder

LO: describe a key moment that shocked or surprised you in the written test. Explain how this moment is important to the text as a whole.
How does this show my learning: I have created an essay about an event in the book which shocks audiences and how it changes the text as a whole.
How could I improve: I could improve in my vocabulary.
I am wondering: Why was this part included by the author.

‘When given the choice between being right or kind, choose kind’ a quote appearing in ‘wonder’ by RJ palacio asking whether you would do something to benefit yourself or others; Miranda chose kind when she gave up her lead roll so Via could claim the spotlight. This moment shocked readers due to the fact Miranda, up to this point, had been a reasonably selfish character. The moment was unexpected and changed our view of Miranda as a character.

Throughout ‘wonder’ Via and Miranda’s friendship had been shaky and withering, the moment Miranda faked a sickness to give Via the lead roll surprised us and confirmed their friendship still existed. During the summer break Miranda delebritly failed to keep in contact with Via, stretching their friendship to almost non existent. Via was very upset her life long friend had abandoned her. When Miranda saw Via’s family, she selflessly faked a sickness, even though she would get in trouble, to let Via shine in front of her family. Miranda’s reasoning was ‘she had nobody to applaud her, Via did’ and decided it would be a better choice for Via to have her roll. Their friendship had changed once again.

Similar to the sudden change of heart Miranda had, another character had gone through a similar dilemah. When Jack punches Julian we think of the similarities in the two events. They both are a friend choosing an action which benefits others over themselves. Miranda wanted to keep the lead roll, bath in the spotlight and hear the applause directed at her, just like how Jack wanted to be popular. Both character’s friendships were challenged but overcome, making us believe friendships do heal. Miranda was Via’s life long friend, the shift of tides made us pity Via and dislike Miranda. When Miranda demonstrated a selfless deed in benefit to Via, our view changed and we thought of her as still Via’s friend.

Miranda and Via had been friends for a very long time. Their friendship started at kindergarten, sparking years of memories and moments. When Miranda didn’t contact Via after she got back from camp we felt betrayed for Via. Her best friend didn’t even bother to talk to her. Our view changed completely when we read Miranda’s section of the book. We are taught why she didn’t contact Via, her thought process when she faked being sick and how Via was still very important to her. Their friendship was going to live on.

Miranda’s selfless act changed our view of her as a character. She had developed from best friend to acquaintance and back again. We felt relieved and excited when Miranda demonstrated how she still values Via’s friendship and how she risked getting in trouble to let Via shine in the lead role. A friendship was mended an a character was redeemed. In this instance, Miranda chose kind.