Wonder by R. J. Palacio – Part 5

Justin

Old black-and-white movies and a fiddle tune that’s older than the United States.

Justin, Via’s boyfriend, narrates Part 5. Notice that his entire section is written in lowercase letters. His voice sounds relaxed and musical, almost like he’s thinking out loud.

Keep your copy of Wonder open. Each section below tells you where to look, so you can read the passage in the book before watching the video.

Chapter 78: The Bus Stop

The Little Rascals

In the book

Justin thinks Jack has the gravelly voice of a little tough guy. He looks like one of the kids from old black-and-white movies who should be wearing a newsboy cap and knickers.

The background

Our Gang, later known as The Little Rascals, was a series of short comedy films made from the 1920s to the 1940s. They starred a group of mischievous neighborhood kids in caps, suspenders, and knickers (short pants gathered below the knee).

Why it matters

Justin sees Jack as a scrappy, loyal kid who sticks up for his friends. Later in Part 5, watch how Justin himself stands up for Jack and Auggie.

Talk about it

What personality traits do Jack and the Little Rascals share?

The Little Rascals, “Spooky Hooky” (1936)

Chapter 79: Rehearsal

“Soldier’s Joy”

In the book

Justin is playing the Stage Manager in the school play, Our Town. Whenever he needs a moment to remember his next line, he plays a bit of “Soldier’s Joy” on his fiddle.

The background

“Soldier’s Joy” is one of the oldest and best-known fiddle tunes, dating back to at least the 1700s in Scotland, Ireland, and America. It’s fast, cheerful, and a favorite of traditional musicians.

Why it matters

Music is Justin’s comfort zone. Playing a familiar tune helps calm his nerves and cleverly buys him time on stage.

Talk about it

Justin uses music to stay calm under pressure. What helps you stay calm when you’re nervous?

“Soldier’s Joy” on fiddle
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