The Wonder

By Emma Donoghue,

Book cover of The Wonder

Book description

Now a Netflix film starring Florence Pugh: In this “old-school page turner” (Stephen King, New York Times Book Review) by the bestselling author of Room, an English nurse is brought to a small Irish village to observe what appears to be a miracle—a girl said to have survived without food…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked The Wonder as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Like many, I came to know Emma Donoghue through Room, which was adapted into the 2015 film. But she’s mostly a writer of historical fiction.

This book (which also became a movie) is set during the Irish Potato Famine when an English nurse is called to examine a supposedly miraculous “fasting girl” who claims to have gone weeks without food. 

From Emily's list on historical fiction with mysteries.

I can be cynical. I can refuse to see the miraculous even when it’s right in front of me. I don’t want to be like this, but I’m a skeptic. But what if I let myself believe something surprising, beautiful, and impossible?

This book made me want to believe in miracles, prayer, faith, and one person’s ability to change everything. 

From Heather's list on when you’re feeling your worst.

Want books like The Wonder?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like The Wonder.

Browse books like The Wonder

Book cover of Possession
Book cover of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
Book cover of Fingersmith

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,187

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in nurses, Ireland, and girls?

Nurses 31 books
Ireland 308 books
Girls 90 books