"Ungifted" is a novel by Gordon Korman that tells the story of Donovan Curtis, a troublemaker and slacker who accidentally enrolls in a gifted and talented program at his school. The book explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the importance of education.
One of the strengths of the book is the character development of Donovan. He starts out as a troublemaker who doesn't take school seriously, but as he is enrolled in the gifted and talented program, he begins to discover his talents and interests. Through his interactions with the other students in the program, he learns that intelligence comes in many different forms and that he also has valuable skills.
The other characters in the book are also well-written and diverse, each bringing their unique perspective to the story. The interactions between the students in the gifted and talented program are realistic and provide an interesting portrayal of the challenges that can arise in group settings.
Another noteworthy aspect of the book is the way it explores the education system. Korman raises essential questions about the limitations of standardized testing and the value of creativity and innovation in education. Through the characters' experiences in the book, he suggests that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to education and that we need to find ways to support and encourage all students, regardless of their academic abilities.
Overall, "Ungifted" is an engaging and thought-provoking book that will resonate with young readers. The characters are relatable and well-developed, the themes are relevant and important, and the writing is accessible and engaging. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in exploring the complexities of education and the importance of self-discovery.