Great books for gifted kids
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2015 10:58 AM

If you're the parent of a gifted child, you've seen his or her kids IQ test results. These numbers have probably left you wondering how you can challenge your son or daughter while at home. Providing him or her with reading that is exciting and a little difficult may help improve vocabulary skills and comprehension. Here are a few books recommended by the Young Mensan Book Parade:

'One Bear Extraordinaire' by Jayme McGowan
McGowan is an incredible writer and illustrator who created this book. She paints, cuts and layers pieces before assembling them into the images in the finished "One Bear Extraordinaire," giving each page a 3D look that is sure to capture the imagination of your gifted child. This story is about a musical bear who journeys through the forest to find new songs and band members to play with. McGowan's rhythmic writing will have your gifted child singing her praises.

'Hope for Winter: The True Story of a Remarkable Dolphin Friendship' by Craig Hatkoff and David Yates
When Winter the dolphin was born without a tail, she had a tough life ahead of her. Just five years after a marine team rescued her from the ocean, the scientists came across another orphaned, injured dolphin and named it Hope. The duo became friends, and the tale is one of camaraderie and inspiration.

'Top Secret Files: Pirates and Buried Treasure' by Stephanie Bearce
Does your gifted child enjoy playing pirates, claiming new territories as he or she goes? This Top Secret Files book will get your little swashbuckler's adrenaline pumping! The book features historical accounts of the real pirates of the Caribbean and Blackbeard, as well as battles and exotic creatures. You just might kickstart a love of history when you read this book together!

'Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery that Baffled All of France' by Mara Rockliff
Many young children are interested in magic, from fairies and elves to disappearing acts. This exciting book offers an interesting look into the life of Benjamin Franklin as he developed ways to approach science that were less flashy than other showboaters of his time. Your child will learn about observation and making a hypothesis, as well as fancy magic shows that people considered "science" during the time Franklin first arrived in Paris, France. Rockliff's book is a fun look into history that your child will find fascinating.