R.J. Palacio

R.J. Palacio, born Raquel Jaramillo on July 13, 1963, in New York City, is an American author best known for her work in children’s and young adult literature. Writing under the name R.J. Palacio, she has built a reputation for emotionally resonant stories that speak to empathy, kindness, and belonging.

Before becoming widely recognized as a novelist, Palacio worked as a graphic designer, a background that helped shape her clear, accessible storytelling style. Her books have reached a broad international audience, earning particular attention for their compassionate perspective and classroom-friendly themes.

Her breakout title, Wonder, became a major bestseller and turned her into a household name among readers and educators. The novel’s popularity expanded beyond publishing when it was adapted into the 2017 feature film starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson, introducing Palacio’s characters and message to an even wider audience.

Today, R.J. Palacio remains closely associated with uplifting, character-driven writing that encourages readers to see the world through someone else’s eyes—an approach that continues to define her impact on modern family storytelling.