Books for Gifted Students

The Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted (WATG) is proud to offer Summer Scholarships to support gifted students in pursuing enriching educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom. These scholarships provide financial assistance for students to attend summer programs, camps, and other specialized learning opportunities that align with their unique talents and interests. Whether exploring STEM, the arts, leadership, or other advanced studies, our scholarships help ensure that all gifted students have access to meaningful growth experiences. WATG is committed to fostering the potential of Wisconsin's gifted youth by expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities.


As part of the application, students must submit either an essay or a video/multimedia presentation, along with one reference letter from a teacher or a non-family member. The essay or presentation should address the following:


  • Personal background and advanced enrichment needs.
  • A description of the summer program or class you wish to attend and the reasons for your interest in it.
  • An explanation of why you believe you are a strong candidate for this scholarship.

Student Summer Scholarships

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The Big Fat Notebook Series (History, Science, Math, etc.)

Description: Comprehensive, student-friendly guides that cover core subjects with clear explanations, visuals, and mnemonic tips.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Offers depth and connections across topics, encouraging independent learning and critical thinking.


Ideal for: Middle school to early high school gifted learners who want a thorough yet engaging review of subjects


Amazon Links

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba

Description: The inspiring true story of a young Malawian boy who builds a windmill to bring electricity to his village.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Encourages problem-solving, innovation, and persistence in the face of challenges.


Ideal for: Middle school and high school students interested in STEM, engineering, and real-world innovation


Link: https://amzn.to/3JVu5AU


Brain Quest Workbooks




Description: A fun, colorful workbook series covering math, reading, science, and social studies. Designed for at-home practice and enrichment.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Engages students with thought-provoking questions, games, and quizzes that support advanced thinking.


Ideal for: Elementary and middle school gifted students


Amazon Links


Code This Game! by Meg Ray



Description: A hands-on guide to creating simple games using coding principles, with step-by-step instructions.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Develops computational thinking, creativity, and logical reasoning.


Ideal for: Gifted learners in late elementary through middle school who are curious about coding and game design


Link: https://amzn.to/47KTfeE



The Genius Files by Dan Gutman



Description: A fast-paced adventure series featuring siblings with exceptional abilities who travel across the U.S. solving mysteries.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Combines humor, problem-solving, and high-stakes adventure to engage creative and analytical minds.


Ideal for: Upper elementary to middle school gifted readers who enjoy action, puzzles, and clever protagonists


Link: https://amzn.to/4oKgqLX


The Gifted Teen Survival Guide



Description: Practical advice and strategies for navigating social, emotional, and academic challenges unique to gifted teens.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Provides tools for self-awareness, time management, and managing asynchronous development.


Ideal for: Teen gifted learners and their parents seeking guidance on thriving in school and life


Link: https://amzn.to/481HuiL


Mathematicians are People Too by Dale Seymour

Description: A collection of biographies and anecdotes about famous mathematicians and their quirky, human sides.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Shows that brilliant thinkers are relatable, inspiring interest in mathematics and problem-solving.


Ideal for: Middle school to high school students who love math and enjoy stories about real-life innovators


Link: https://amzn.to/4pdh44v

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

Description: A novel about four exceptionally gifted children who pass a secret test and join a mysterious institute to solve cryptic problems. Full of puzzles, friendship, and clever twists.


Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Celebrates intelligence, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.


Ideal for: Upper elementary and middle school readers


Link: https://amzn.to/44iet17