Matilda by Roald Dahl (1988)

A precocious little girl with neglectful parents finds help and hope from a kindly teacher, and they work together to outwit a tyrannical school principal. The darkly humorous story points to the power of friendship in protecting and nurturing great talent.

• Matilda on SuperSummary

Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick (1993)

Freak the Mighty tells the story of two boys—Max, who has dyslexia and is larger in stature than most kids his age, and Kevin, or “Freak,” who is extremely bright and has Morquio Syndrome, which affects his mobility and growth. The boys become friends, share adventures, and defend themselves against bullies and social rejection. They learn to embrace who they are and turn social liabilities into assets.

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Hidden Talents by David Lubar (1999)

A group of teens at an alternative school discover they have superpowers and secretly help each other master and use them in positive ways. Their journey helps them bond with others, work together, and respect themselves and each other.

• Hidden Talents on SuperSummary