Suggested books and games
Welcome to our curated collection of books, games, and learning tools designed specifically for gifted and talented students
– and
the parents, educators, and caregivers who support them. Whether you’re looking to challenge advanced learners, nurture creativity, strengthen social-emotional skills, or spark new passions, you’ll find thoughtfully selected resources to meet a wide range of needs.
From enrichment workbooks and high-level strategy games to insightful parenting guides and professional texts for educators, each item is chosen with gifted learners in mind. Our lists include options for all ages and interests, making it easy to discover engaging materials that promote curiosity, critical thinking, and joyful learning.
As an Amazon Affiliate, WATG earns a small commission from qualifying purchases made through the links on this page. Your purchases help support our mission of empowering gifted students, families, and educators across Wisconsin
– at no
additional cost to you.
Browse, explore, and enjoy finding new favorites that inspire bright minds!
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
Logo Contest
Calling all creative K-12 students across Wisconsin! Each year, Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted invites students to design a logo for our Annual Conference, and we're excited to see your creativity shine.
Deadline Extended: April 15, 2025 at midnight
Theme for the 2025 Conference: Take a Chance on Gifted Education!
Conference Dates: October 5–7, 2025
Location: Wisconsin Dells
Size: No larger than 4" x 4"
Color: Black and white only
Adaptability: Must be scalable (use bold lettering and simple, non-intricate designs)
Submit your original logo design to help us represent this year's theme! Winning artwork will be featured in conference materials and recognized statewide.
How to Submit: Email your logo to watg@watg.org
Books for Gifted Students
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
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Books for Parents of Gifted Learners
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Books for Teachers and GT Specialists
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STEM, Logic, and Problem-Solving Games
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Creative Thinking and Enrichment Tools
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Social-Emotional Learning and Well-Being
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Books and Tools for Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners
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Technology and Coding Tools
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