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There are one million new books published each year. With so many books and so little time, where do you begin to find your next must-read? There’s the New York Times Bestseller list, the Goodreads app, the Cape Library’s Staff picks shelf and now Martin’s Must-Reads.Every Wednesday at 6:42 and 8:42 a.m., and Sunday at 8:18 a.m., Betty Martin recommends a must read based on her own personal biases for historical fiction, quirky characters and overall well-turned phrases. Her list includes WWII novels, biographies of trailblazers, novels with truly unique individuals and lots more. Reading close to 100 titles a year, Betty has plenty of titles to share.Local support for "Martin's Must Reads" comes from the Cape Girardeau Public Library and the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library.

Martin's Must Reads: 'The Gifted School'

“There is something so tantalizing about having a gifted child that some parents will go to almost any lengths to prove they have one.”

I’m Betty Martin with "Martin’s Must Reads" and that’s a quote that Bruce Holsinger uses to begin his novel The Gifted School. Four women, Samantha, Lauren, Rose and Azra have been close friends for eleven years, ever since they met at a swim class when their children were babies.

As the story begins, the surrounding school districts have received funding to open a public magnet school for exceptional learners. Only one percent of the student population will make the cut, so the competition is fierce.

The application process starts with a standardized test and then requires a portfolio that highlights each students special gift. All four of these women believe their children are gifted. To what lengths will they go to insure their children will be admitted? And how will their focus affect their family relationships?

The only mother who truly seems to get it right is an outsider, Silea, a single immigrant mother who cleans houses and recognizes the unique gift her son has as he makes intricate origami figures. She quietly supports his decision to apply.

The book’s climax happens when the most gifted of the children, Xander, exposes a secret with his portfolio presentation. It brings all four couples up short and, if anything, sets them on a better parenting path. This would make a great book discussion title for parents with children in school or for any who wonder about “gifted children.” Parenting is hard. How much should we push our children to reach their full potential.

If you’re looking for a book that will stimulate discussion and thoughtful reflection, then you must read The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger.

Betty Martin was born in Boston, Massachusetts to a Lutheran pastor and his organist wife. Betty’s love of books was inspired by her father who read to all four children each night.
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