At Wheatland Middle School, eighth-grade student Nicholas Patton has accomplished an exceptional literary feat, completing the Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Challenge in under two years. This rigorous program, organized by the Mensa Foundation, required Nicholas to read all 60 books from a curated list of classics and contemporary works that challenge young readers to expand their horizons.
Titles on the list include beloved stories such as The Count of Monte Cristo, The Hobbit, A Wrinkle in Time, Rip Van Winkle, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, and Tales from Shakespeare. Reflecting on his journey, Nicholas said, “I’ve always had fun reading, and I thought this would be a fun and challenging activity. Plus, completing it felt like a great achievement.”
Nicholas’s inspiration to take on the program came from his father, who introduced the idea as a way to foster his love of reading and personal growth. “My dad has always been there for me, looking out for ways I can learn and improve. He told me no one had ever done this before, so I thought it would be pretty cool to achieve,” Nicholas explained.
A Passion for Literature
While some of the books were over 500 pages long and steeped in complex themes, Nicholas embraced the challenge. Among the 60 titles, his favorite was The Legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. “At first, I thought it might be boring because of its length, but once I started, I couldn’t put it down. It was an amazing book,” he said.
Although the program did not require tests or check-ins, participants are awarded a certificate and an Excellence in Reading T-shirt to commemorate their achievement.
Balancing Excellence in Academics and Extracurriculars
Nicholas’s remarkable dedication to reading is just one facet of his impressive accomplishments. Recently, he won Wheatland Middle School’s spelling bee by correctly spelling “lieutenant.” “It was my first time competing, so I wasn’t sure I’d win, but it feels amazing,” Nicholas said.
Beyond academics, Nicholas is an athlete who plays linebacker for Wheatland’s football team. “Football is another passion of mine, and while our record hasn’t been perfect, it’s always great to win a game,” he shared. Nicholas has played nearly every position on the field, except quarterback and kicker, showcasing his versatility and team spirit.
Advice and Future Aspirations
Nicholas encourages other students to take on the Mensa for Kids Reading Challenge, emphasizing patience and perseverance. “Be patient and try to make the best of it,” he advised.
As for the future, Nicholas is keeping his options open, with dreams as broad as his reading list. “I’m not entirely sure what I want to do yet, but I’m excited about the possibilities,” he said.
About the Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program
The Mensa Foundation’s program fosters a love of reading and celebrates the achievements of young readers. Open to students internationally, the initiative invites participants under 18 to complete a comprehensive reading list inspired by the National Endowment for the Humanities’ Summertime Favorites and Nonfiction Favorites. Upon completion, readers earn a certificate and an Excellence in Reading T-shirt, recognizing their dedication to lifelong learning.
Nicholas’s determination and success embody the spirit of Wheatland Middle School, inspiring peers and educators alike. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved through passion, hard work, and a love of learning.
Congratulations, Nicholas, for making Wheatland proud and setting an example of excellence for students everywhere!