Unlocking Genius: Back-to-School Reads for Raising Smart Kids

6 books for nurturing brilliant students

School is back in session, and students are facing a fresh set of challenges—assignments, tests, and the ever-present pressure to perform. For parents and educators, the question is not just how to keep up but how to help students truly thrive. To navigate this landscape and unlock each child’s potential, check out these six insightful books that offer fresh perspectives on education, intelligence, and success. Whether you’re looking to break down myths, embrace new learning models, or simply raise a smarter, more engaged student, these reads will equip you with the knowledge to guide the next generation.

A Measure of Intelligence: One Mother’s Reckoning with the IQ Test

By Pepper Stetler

In a quest to advocate for her daughter, Pepper Stetler uncovers the dark history of the IQ that leads her to question what exactly we are measuring when we measure intelligence. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Pepper Stetler, in the Next Big Idea App

Math Mind: The Simple Path to Loving Math

By Shalinee Sharma

Bust the math myths that are holding you and your kids back and learn the joys of numeracy with this one-of-a-kind resource for parents, educators, and policymakers. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Shalinee Sharma, in the Next Big Idea App

The Education Wars: A Citizen’s Guide and Defense Manual

By Jennifer Berkshire & Jack Schneider

A perfectly timed book for the educational resistance for those of us who believe in public schools. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by co-authors Jennifer Berkshire and Jack Schneider, in the Next Big Idea App

Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing)

By Salman Khan

From the founder of Khan Academy, the first book written for general audiences on the AI revolution in education, its implications for parenting, and how we can best harness its power for good. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Salman Khan, in the Next Big Idea App

Apprentice Nation: How the “Earn and Learn” Alternative to Higher Education Will Create a Stronger and Fairer America

By Ryan Craig

College isn’t for everyone. It’s time to challenge the status quo and embrace the potential of apprenticeships: a more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable pathway to economic opportunity. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Ryan Craig, in the Next Big Idea App

A+ Parenting: The Surprisingly Fun Guide to Raising Surprisingly Smart Kids

By Eva Moskowitz with Eric Grannis

Eva Moskowitz, founder of the highly lauded Success Academy Charter Schools, shares her advice for raising smart, successful, and intellectually engaged children. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Eva Moskowitz, in the Next Big Idea App