This book is one I picked up before going to bed, and I was absolutely intrigued throughout the novel. A young boy with facial deformities navigates his way through fifth grade, and it’s not easy. Throughout this novel, the reader gets an insight of many characters, their perspectives, and coping mechanisms. A lot of the novels I read are about fantasy, mystery, and “out-of-the-world” challenges, but this one was a calm and interesting read. This is a book that can definitely be read by some elementary schoolers, but as a high schooler I still enjoyed reading this novel. The basic theme of this novel is that “kindness goes a long way.” I loved the personalities Palacio gave each character because it contributes to the dynamic development of the protagonist himself.
Overall, I rate this book 4.3/5 stars.