Palm Beach Gifted Youth
Dec 29, 2024
Ready to level up your reading list? These aren’t your average YA picks. From brainy sci-fi odysseys to emotionally rich historical fiction and gifted protagonists who actually think things through, this curated list dives deep into identity, ethics, and imagination. Perfect for readers who crave complexity, not clichés.
Complex Fantasy & Science Fiction
“Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir (14+)
A gripping story of problem-solving and interstellar science
“House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer (12+)
Thought-provoking exploration of identity and ethics
“Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card (12+)
Strategic thinking and leadership through a gifted protagonist
“The Giver Quartet" by Lois Lowry (11+)
Classic series exploring utopia, memory, and individual choice
Literary Fiction with Gifted Characters
“Born Confused" by Tanuja Desai Hidier (13+)
Cultural identity and artistic expression
“An Absolutely Remarkable Thing" by Hank Green (14+)
Fame, social media, and mysterious global phenomena
“Millicent Min, Girl Genius" by Lisa Yee (10-13)
Relatable story about a gifted girl navigating social life
“The View from Saturday" by E.L. Konigsburg (10-12)
Four gifted students form an unlikely quiz bowl team
Classic Literature with Modern Appeal
“A Wrinkle in Time" series by Madeleine L'Engle (10+)
Science and spirituality in an epic adventure
“The Once and Future King" by T.H. White (13+)
Sophisticated retelling of Arthurian legend
“Good Omens" by Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett (14+)
Witty apocalyptic humor with literary references
Historical Fiction with Depth
“The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak (13+)
Unique narrative perspective and rich historical context
“Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein (14+)
Complex WWII spy narrative with unexpected twists
“The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd (14+)
Historical fiction exploring slavery and women's rights
“One Crazy Summer" by Rita Williams-Garcia (10-13)
Civil Rights era story with sophisticated themes
Contemporary Realistic Fiction
“Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan (10-14)
A gifted protagonist dealing with loss and finding community
“Finding Perfect" by Elly Swartz (11-13)
Thoughtful exploration of OCD and perfectionism
“Highly Illogical Behavior" by John Corey Whaley (13+)
Mental health and friendship
“Far From the Tree" by Robin Benway (14+)
Complex family dynamics and identity