Wonder is the touching tale about a fifth grade boy, August Pullman ("Auggie"), who was born with a rare combination of genetic anomalies, causing him to look “deformed”. Join Auggie as he goes to public school for the first time in this eye-opening story that helps the reader understand what it is like to be different, to experience bullying, and to persevere.
Auggie frequently wore an astronaut helmet in the past, and also wears a "Scream" mask on Halloween. Masks symbolize Auggie's desire to hide from others. He feels freakish and thinks people don't like him because of his appearance.
Auggie mentions shoes a number of times. This shows that he spends a lot of time looking down, not making eye contact. This is probably because he is self-conscious and doesn't want to see the reactions people will have to his face.
Auggie cutting his braid off symbolizes personal growth and a clear transition from one part of his life (homeschooling) to another ("real school").