Ungifted - Book reviews of Ungifted

'Ungifted' book reviews

Review for'Ungifted'

"Ungifted" by Gordon Korman is a delightful and engaging novel that explores themes of identity, intelligence, and the complexities of adolescence. The story centers around Donovan Curtis, a middle school troublemaker whose impulsive actions inadvertently land him in the Academy for Scholastic Distinction (ASD), a school for gifted and talented students. What follows is a humorous and heartwarming tale that captures the essence of what it means to be truly gifted in ways that standardized tests and IQ scores cannot measure.

Korman excels in creating a diverse cast of characters, each of whom adds depth and dimension to the narrative. Donovan is a refreshingly relatable protagonist; his lack of academic prowess is balanced by his street smarts, charisma, and a genuine kindness that endears him to both his peers and the reader. His journey from feeling out of place to finding his unique strengths is both entertaining and inspiring.

The students and faculty at ASD are equally well-drawn. Characters like Noah Youkilis, a boy genius with social awkwardness, and Chloe Garfinkle, a girl who excels academically but struggles with the pressures of being "gifted," provide a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by highly intelligent children. The interactions between Donovan and these characters offer insightful commentary on the nature of intelligence and the importance of emotional and social skills.

Korman's writing is accessible and engaging, making "Ungifted" an excellent choice for middle-grade readers. The humor is spot-on, with many laugh-out-loud moments that will keep readers entertained. The alternating perspectives between Donovan and other key characters add depth to the story, allowing readers to see events from multiple viewpoints and gain a richer understanding of the characters' motivations and growth.

One of the standout aspects of "Ungifted" is its exploration of the educational system and the pressures placed on students. Korman deftly critiques the overemphasis on standardized testing and the narrow definition of intelligence that often overlooks other important qualities like creativity, empathy, and resilience. Through Donovan's experiences, the novel underscores the idea that everyone has unique gifts and that true success comes from recognizing and nurturing those gifts, regardless of how they measure up on a traditional scale.

"Ungifted" also touches on themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery. Donovan's relationships with his family, particularly his older sister and his parents, add an additional layer of emotional depth to the story. His growing friendship with his ASD classmates demonstrates the power of acceptance and the impact that one person can have on the lives of others.

In conclusion, "Ungifted" is a charming and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. Gordon Korman has crafted a story that is not only entertaining but also meaningful, offering valuable lessons about the true nature of intelligence and the importance of staying true to oneself. Whether you are a middle school student, a teacher, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, "Ungifted" is a book that you won't want to miss.

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