Rudy the Smart Kid

The Gifted Boy Who Believes He Can Do Anything

By: Dawn Charleston-Green, Rudolph Valentine III

Narrated by: Rudolph Valentien III, Dawn Charleston-Green

“Rudy the Smart Kid” is and inspiring children’s book that celebrates diversity and promotes a love of learning. The story follows a young boy with an insatiable curiosity and intelligence, who defies expectations and breaks through milestones at an astonishing pace. The book includes advanced vocabulary, check-on-learning, and journal prompts. In the preface and epilogue, co-author Dawn Charleston-Green (Rudy’s mother) shares how she learned to advocate for her son’s giftedness, and never allowed others’ opinion to deter him.

This colorfully fun book can be listened to by learners of all ages, but is structured for 3rd - 5th Grade ADVANCED READERS. It is perfect for early education and to help inspire children to embrace their own unique gifts. Join Rudy on his journey.

©2023 Dawn Charleston-Green (P)2023 Dawn Charleston-Green

Absolutely Phenomenal

I read the hard copy, but there is something extra special about hearing the authors tell their story themselves. This book should be shared because it lets little boys of color know that they can do anything but it also lets parents know that this is possible only with the proper nourishment and love. The naysayers and those who try to stifle the growth of gifted children of color have to step back and retreat when they see the village that stands beside, behind and all around gifted children that look like Rudy. Can't wait for the next installment.

Representation matters

To hear the authors share their story, and to learn of the inspiring and eventful path of young Rudy provoked both pride, joy, and curiosity as I listened.

I hope that other children (particularly boys) and their parents will hear this story, be encouraged, and draw closer together.

More importantly, I hope that this book inspires black and brown boys to walk tall in their gifts and become the influencers and thought leaders they were born to be. GREAT READ!!

Recognize and Nurture

The storyline of love and support. Many gifted children of color are marginalized as disruptive, rather than recognized for their genius. I think this book speaks to what can be accomplished when nurturing that genius is the choice made!