The Top Shelf

Spring 2001 Book Reviews

Volume 1 / Issue 3 / Spring 2001

Uniquely Gifted: Identifying and Meeting the Needs of the Twice-Exceptional Student, edited by Kiesa Kay. Avocus, 2000. Paperback, 356 pp., ISBN 1-890765-04-X. $34.95

In this collection of articles, combinations of giftedness and learning disabilities (such as dysgraphia, autism, and attention deficit disorder) are explored from the perspectives of family members, teachers, researchers, and administrators. By reading the personal stories, teaching strategies, research and theory, and administrative options that are presented, those involved with gifted, learning-disabled students can gain valuable insights into identifying and supporting them.

Helping Gifted Children Soar: A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers, by Carol A. Strip, Ph.D., with Gretchen Hirsch. Gifted Psychology Press, 2000. Paperback, 270 pp., ISBN 0-910707-41-3. $18.00. In Spanish: Ayudando a Niños Dotados a Volar: Una Guía Práctica para Padres y Maestros. Paperback, 296 pp., ISBN 0-910707-42-1. $18.00

Strip, a parent and teacher of the gifted, provides an overview for parents and teachers who are new to the concept of giftedness. An easy read, the book is peppered with suggestions and practical ideas. Strip highlights the differences between gifted and smart, then walks the reader through the options for gifted children. The translation meets a clear need, as there is no similar book available in Spanish.

You Know Your Child Is Gifted When . . . : A Beginner’s Guide to Life on the Bright Side, by Judy Galbraith, edited by Pamela Espeland, illustrated by Ken Vinton. Free Spirit, 2000. Paperback, 120 pp., ISBN 1-57542-076-7. $10.95

“You know your child is gifted when . . . he arranges all the books in your home according to the Dewey Decimal System” (73). This slim book describes the characteristics of young gifted children in a fun, easy way. It also supplies practical ways to support and guide them through social, emotional, and educational challenges.

Books for Teens Adventures and Challenges: Real Life Stories by Girls and Young Women, by Frances A. Karnes and Suzanne M. Bean. Gifted Psychology Press, 2000. Paperback, 196 pp., ISBN 0-910707-35-9. $18.00

This book, divided into three sections, provides role models and guidelines for adventurous young women. First, from the Arctic to the jungle, girls and young women recount their real-life experiences and offer advice and encouragement to their readers. Second, Karnes and Bean present strategies for teenage girls hoping to embark on their own adventures. Third, quotations from young female adventurers and famous adults, plus a timeline of their accomplishments, provide inspiration. An extensive list of references follows. Not specifically for the gifted, this book is a good read for any girl.

The Teenager’s Guide to School outside the Box, by Rebecca Greene, edited by Elizabeth Verdick. Free Spirit, 2000. Paperback, 260 pp., ISBN 1-57542-087-2. $15.95

A substantial resource, this book exposes teens to a wealth of opportunities with which to enrich their school experience. Greene, a young, “been-there-done-that” author, covers a host of topics, from résumés to study abroad and volunteerism. Each section is rich in concrete ideas, step-by-step advice, highlights of student experiences, and references.

Jump Start: Ideas to Move Your Mind, by Beatrice J. Elyé with Catherine A. Southwick. Gifted Psychology Press, 2000. Paperback, 304 pp., ISBN 0-910707-40-5. $18.00

This guidebook-journal is based on a series of short essays and handouts that Elyé, a former science teacher, created for her brightest students. It covers decision-making, time management, and conversational skills and offers general guidance on building life skills.
—Lori Nathanson