Contents
Floating
Overview
Auggie is called to the stage to receive the Henry Ward Beecher medal and is met with an unexpected standing ovation. Surrounded by cheers from friends, teachers, and classmates, he feels as if he’s floating. Mr. Tushman awards the medal, and Auggie reflects on being perceived as different yet feeling ordinary.
Summary
As Mr. Tushman announces the award, applause erupts before Auggie fully processes what’s happening. Maya squeals, Miles pats his back, and classmates urge Auggie to stand. Jack leads a chant of his name, Amos cheers, and Summer gives a secret thumbs-up as Auggie heads to the aisle.
Walking toward the stage, Auggie sees teachers cheering—Mr. Browne, Ms. Petosa, Mr. Roche, Mrs. Atanabi, and Nurse Molly. Ms. Rubin waves and Mrs. G cries happily. As Auggie steps onto the stage, the entire audience rises in a standing ovation, which makes him feel like he’s floating.
Mr. Tushman shakes Auggie’s hand, whispers “Well done,” and places the gold medal around his neck. Facing the cheering crowd, Auggie likens the moment to the medal ceremony in Star Wars, hearing the theme music in his head as if watching himself in a movie.
In the quiet of his thoughts, Auggie acknowledges why he’s being honored: many people see him as the person they can’t imagine being. Though others perceive his difference, Auggie feels simply like himself—an ordinary kid who made it through fifth grade. He accepts the medal with humility and a sense of triumph.
Who Appears
- Auggie PullmanReceives the Henry Ward Beecher medal, gets a standing ovation, and reflects on being ordinary despite others’ perceptions.
- Mr. TushmanHeadmaster who congratulates Auggie, presents the medal, and leads the moment of recognition.
- Jack WillLeads the chant for Auggie, visibly celebrating his friend’s achievement.
- AmosCheers loudly for Auggie from the audience, supporting him during the ovation.
- SummerSignals a secret thumbs-up and mouths encouragement as Auggie passes.
- MayaSqueals happily when Auggie’s name is called and urges him to stand.
- MilesPats Auggie’s back and helps usher him to the aisle.
- Ms. RubinWaves from the front row as Auggie approaches the stage.
- Mrs. Garcia (Mrs. G)Cries happily and applauds during Auggie’s ovation.
- Mr. BrowneCheering teacher in the aisle as Auggie walks to the stage.
- Ms. PetosaAmong the teachers applauding Auggie during his walk to the stage.
- Mr. RocheTeacher seen cheering as Auggie heads to receive the medal.
- Mrs. AtanabiTeacher applauding Auggie from the aisle seats.
- Nurse MollySchool nurse cheering for Auggie during the ovation.