The locale and timeframe of a narrative significantly influence its characters’ development, conflicts, and overall themes. In R.J. Palacio’s “Wonder,” the primary backdrop is North River Heights, an affluent Upper West Side neighborhood in New York City. Much of the story unfolds within the Beecher Prep middle school, a microcosm reflecting the social dynamics and challenges faced by the protagonist, August Pullman.
The specific socioeconomic environment impacts the characters’ perspectives and the opportunities available to them. The school environment fosters both inclusion and exclusion, mirroring the broader societal challenges of acceptance and prejudice. The story’s temporal context, situated in contemporary times, allows readers to readily identify with the social norms and technological advancements influencing the characters’ lives and interactions.