After a week met with lots of resistance and very little actual schoolwork accomplished, we were left drained and needing a pick-me-up. So even though we were all tired and probably could've benefited from an early bedtime, I decided to hit up Redbox and unwind with my boys. I think it was just what we needed after a crazy week. Surprised that Wonder was even available (new releases are almost always gone at our closest Redbox), I excitedly convinced my boys that we should check it out. I generally knew what it was about, but had no idea what we were actually in for...

So before going any further, I have to say...you know how with many homeschoolers, school never really ends for the day? There's always something to learn in every situation. Whether a trip to the grocery store turns into a math lesson, or a park day turns into a science class -- there's always something. Well, Wonder ended up leading to a wonderful discussion with my 1st grader. I really can't describe how much we loved it! In fact, I'm such a fan that after we finished, I immediately went online to look up the books that are related to it. Who knew there were several!?! I knew this film was based on a novel, but I had no idea they've created others that are connected to it! I know, was I living under a rock?! Apparently these have all been out for awhile, but it's news to me, ha! Fast forward two days and I ended up at Target buying what they had in stock. (See the picture above) We've already started reading the original book. Both my boys are hooked!

So back to the movie...I don't know about you, but when I was a kid, I'd look over at my mom during a heart-warming movie and see her tearing up -- not getting why it was an emotional experience for her. Yeah...now I'm that mom tearing up while my boys sit and look at me the same way, HA! There really are no words for how fantastic this movie is. It helps teach kids about bullying, about kindness and treating people the same no matter how they look, and about overcoming hard situations that we all have to face in life. Plus, the quotes and music are great. In fact, my son said his new favorite song is one that's in the movie, ha. 

If you decide to jump right to watching the movie first, definitely grab it here...

Or if you haven't seen the movie yet, perhaps you could read this first. I wasn't patient enough for that, but we started it today. Depending on the version, it may even contain a family discussion guide -- total win!