“The things I do for love.” – Jaime Lannister, Game of Thrones

The things parents do for their children… are they really rooted in the love? Or is it simply a reflection of their self-interest? This book is incredibly timely given the recent celebrity college scandal – so I was quickly intrigued by the premise.

An ultra selective school for the gifted develops in Crystal City – immediately flipping the dynamics of a friend group. Everyone believes their kids are special, right? I know my parents did. (I wasn’t.) How will people react if someone tells them their perception is not reality? Impulsively, defensively, even aggressively? You bet.

The gloves come off as parents act like children as they lie to their spouses, friends and selves to rationalize their paranoia and questionable morals. After all, a good parent must go above and beyond for their children’s wellbeing and future success – so admission into the most elite and progressive middle/high school is essential right?

Holsinger definitely developed this narrative in the same vein as Big Little Lies. However, this drama filled plot was missing some of the danger found throughout Moriarty’s novel. I never felt the stakes were high enough for this group of frenemies, their kids, or spouses. Despite the surprises sprinkled throughout the pages, I ultimately only felt one character had enough on the line – Atik, and this underprivileged child was not even a main character.

The Gifted School was a fine drama-filled summer read, but the twists were not shocking enough, and it was missing a real memorable culmination.

Verdict: Skip it. 2/5 stars
Length: 452 pages
Quote: “He went to sleep full of excitement about his plan. About these amazing things you can learn about people if you’re willing to experiment a little. Who they are. Maybe especially who they aren’t.”
Instead Try: Obviously Big Little Lies, but if you are reading this then you probably already read it, so…

Buy The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger