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41 pages 1 hour read

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Ben Carson, Cecil Murphey

Gifted Hands

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Detroit, Michigan • 1960s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

950L

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Super Short Summary

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story by Ben Carson and Cecil Murphey details how Carson, through his faith, supportive family, and determination, overcomes challenges from his early life in Detroit to become a groundbreaking neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins, achieving notable success, such as the first separation of craniopagus twins joined at the back of the head. The book addresses experiences of poverty and family mental health issues.

Inspirational

Hopeful

Emotional

Informative

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.4

28,327 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gifted Hands by Ben Carson and Cecil Murphey receives praise for its inspirational narrative and detailed account of Carson’s medical career, showcasing his resilience and faith. Critics note, however, that some sections are overly self-congratulatory and the writing style can be simplistic. Overall, it's an uplifting story of overcoming adversity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gifted Hands?

Readers who would enjoy Gifted Hands by Ben Carson and Cecil Murphey are those inspired by real-life success stories, interested in medicine, or looking for motivational biographies. Comparable to The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch and Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom, this book appeals to those valuing perseverance and personal triumph.

4.4

28,327 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Ben Carson

A talented neurosurgeon raised in Detroit, who becomes the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins, known for his groundbreaking operations and commitment to motivating youth through his THINK BIG philosophy.

Ben Carson's mother, whose determination and faith significantly influence her sons' education and achievements despite her own limited schooling.

Ben Carson's older brother, who inspires Ben in music and discipline, while also providing guidance and support during their upbringing.

Ben Carson's wife, whom he meets in college; she shares his religious faith and supports his THINK BIG initiative while pursuing her own education and career.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Detroit, Michigan • 1960s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

950L

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