Children's Literature
August Pullman has always been homeschooled. During the summer before he is to start fifth grade, August's parents inform him they've applied for him to attend a private school. Shocked, August immediately puts up a fight. He doesn't want to attend school looking the way he does. He would want to go if he was an ordinary ten-year-old, but he's not. August was born with a facial deformity, and has undergone surgery after surgery. Despite all of this, August still has an extraordinary face—one that stops people in mid-sentence. Finally agreeing to go to school, August embarks on a roller coaster of a year through fifth grade. From having no friends at all, to being one of the most popular kids in his class, August enjoys quite a year. What makes the book most interesting is the change in points of view. Starting and ending in August's point of view, but also told from his sister's, best friends', and his sister's boyfriend, this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. Themes of love and forgiveness, true friendship, the importance of family, bullying, and accepting people are woven throughout this unique book. Hilariously written, and about an eye-opening topic, it's a good read for all ages. Reviewer: Maggie L. Schrock