R.J. Palacio book summaries

“When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.”

Mr. Browne's precept, which is introduced in the first part of the book and becomes a central theme.

“I think there should be a rule that everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives.”

Auggie says this after receiving a standing ovation at his graduation.

“If every single person in this room made it a rule that wherever we are, whenever we can, we will try to act a little kinder than is necessary, the world really would be a better place.”

Mr. Tushman says this in his graduation speech.

“You can't blend in when you were born to stand out.”

Via says this to Auggie, encouraging him to embrace his uniqueness.

“I know I'm not an ordinary ten-year-old kid. I mean, sure, I do ordinary things. I eat ice cream. I ride my bike. I play ball. I have an XBox. Stuff like that makes me ordinary. I mean, I know ordinary kids don't get stared at wherever they go.”

Auggie's opening narration, establishing his self-awareness about his appearance.