Childhood
Where was Ben Carson born?
Detroit, Michigan
What subject did Ben struggle with most in the beginning?
Math
What field of medicine did Ben specialize in?
Neurosurgery
What role did faith play in Carson’s life?
His faith guided his decisions and gave him strength
What is one central theme of Gifted Hands?
Overcoming adversity through determination and faith
Who encouraged Ben to read instead of watch tv?
His mother, Sonya Carson
Where did Ben attend college?
Yale University
At what age did he become the youngest chief of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins?
33 years old
How did his mother shape his character?
Through encouragement, discipline, and faith
What does the book suggest about the importance of education?
Education opens doors and creates opportunities for success
What was one major challenge Ben faced in elementary school?
Poor grades and low self-esteem.
What activity helped Ben succeed academically?
Reading library books!
What famous surgery made Ben Carson world-renowned?
Separating conjoined twins joined at the head.
What does the title Gifted Hands symbolize?
His talent as a surgeon, believed to be a gift from God
How does Carson’s story highlight the power of perseverance?
He continued working hard despite obstacles and failures until he achieved his goals.
What did Ben discover he was very good at as a child?
Memorization and hand-eye coordination and hands-on skills.
What dream career did Ben have before medicine?
A career in music.
What did Ben say was most important in high-pressure surgeries?
Staying calm and focused
What lesson does Carson give about overcoming obstacles?
Determination, education, and faith can overcome challenges
What does Gifted Hands teach about the role of mentors and family?
Support from family and mentors can change the direction of someone’s life
How did Ben's mother's actions influence her strict rules?
She had only a third-grade education but believed in discipline and hard work.
What was Ben’s major at Yale?
Psychology
What year did Carson perform the conjoined twins separation surgery in Germany?
1987
What advice does Carson give students about success?
Use your opportunities, work hard, and never give up
What overall message does Ben Carson want readers, especially young people, to take away from his story?
That anyone, regardless of background, can achieve greatness through faith, discipline, and hard work.