Book Review of “Gifted Hands” by Ben Carson

• Title: Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story
• Author: Ben Carson with Cecil Murphey
• Publisher: Zondervan
• Year: 1990
• City: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Introduction

“Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story” is an inspiring autobiography that chronicles the life of Dr. Ben Carson, a renowned neurosurgeon who overcame tremendous obstacles to achieve success. 

The book details Carson’s journey from a struggling inner-city youth to becoming one of the world’s leading pediatric neurosurgeons. Through his story, Carson emphasizes the importance of education, hard work, faith, and perseverance in overcoming life’s challenges.

Overall Theme

The overarching theme of the book is the power of determination, education, and faith in transforming one’s life circumstances. 

Carson’s story demonstrates how a person can rise above poverty, racial prejudice, and academic struggles through dedication, self-belief, and support from others. 

The book also highlights the importance of developing one’s God-given talents and using them to serve humanity.

Chapter-by-Chapter Review

Chapter 1 – “Goodbye, Daddy”: This chapter introduces young Ben Carson and his family, focusing on the departure of his father. It sets the stage for the challenges Ben will face growing up in a single-parent household.

Chapter 2 – “Carrying the Load”: Here, Carson describes his mother’s influence and her efforts to raise her sons despite financial hardships. The chapter emphasizes Sonya Carson’s determination to see her children succeed.

Chapter 3 – “Eight Years Old”: This chapter details the family’s move to Boston and the difficult living conditions they faced. It also highlights Ben’s growing interest in learning and his mother’s encouragement of education.

Chapter 4 – “Two Positives”: Carson discusses two significant events that helped improve his academic performance: getting glasses and his mother’s implementation of a reading program at home.

Chapter 5 – “A Boy’s Big Problem”: This chapter focuses on Carson’s struggles with his temper and how he overcame this challenge through prayer and self-reflection.

Chapter 6 – “A Terrible Temper”: Continuing from the previous chapter, Carson describes a pivotal moment when he nearly stabbed a friend, leading to intense prayer and a transformative experience.

Chapter 7-8: These chapters detail Carson’s high school years, his involvement in ROTC, and his decision to apply to Yale University.

Chapter 9-10: These sections cover Carson’s college years at Yale, his relationship with Candy Rustin (his future wife), and his growing interest in neurosurgery.

Chapter 11-12: These chapters describe Carson’s medical school experiences and his residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

The book continues to detail Carson’s career as a neurosurgeon, including his groundbreaking surgeries and personal life.

Conclusion

“Gifted Hands” is a powerful testament to the potential within each individual to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. 

Ben Carson’s story serves as an inspiration to readers, encouraging them to pursue their dreams relentlessly, value education, and maintain faith in the face of challenges. 

The book not only chronicles Carson’s personal and professional achievements but also emphasizes the importance of using one’s talents to benefit others and make a positive impact on the world.