What people are saying
"Sometimes it takes a self-help book to state the nearly-obvious, but Dr. Peter Benson’s book, Sparks does this so well and contains such crucially valuable information that it is definitely worth a read."
—Kathryn Atwood, www.bookpleasures.com
---------------------------------------------
"Sparks: How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers is a timely and resource rich book. If you want to help your teenager find their sparks – the thing(s) that make them strong and feed their spirit – then look no further."
---------------------------------------------
"Peter Benson has a powerful vision: a future in which all American teens find their "spark" and reach their full potential. A must-read for parents, this book is also an inspirational, practical guide for youth development professionals, teachers, coaches and mentors who want to help teens discover their passions and enjoy meaning, purpose, and happiness."—Roxanne Spillett, president & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America
---------------------------------------------
“Peter Benson has written a lively, down-to-earth, eminently readable book for anyone who teaches, raises, or works with teenagers. Few have figured out the wondrous mystery that is adolescence, but Dr. Benson has made headway in doing so. Sparks is both a how-to manual and a recipe for inspiration.”—Dr. Carol R. Johnson, superintendent, Boston Public Schools
---------------------------------------------
“The teen years can be the most challenging ones for both the teen and their parents. At the same time they can also be the most rewarding. Peter Benson provides valuable, practical insights and advice in Sparks which parents will turn to time and again as they support their teenager in making healthy choices.”—Neil Nicoll, president and CEO, YMCA of the USA
---------------------------------------------
“Some parents lack information on parenting, while others feel deluged. Sparks is exciting and useful because it focuses on one very important thing a parent—or grandparent or other caring adult—can do to help a youth fulfill his or her promise. It guides us to help a young person discover and cultivate sparks of talent and interest that can shape the rest of his or her life. Sparks provides a whole new outlook on our relationships with teenagers. I hope it reaches and touches everyone who cares about our nation's youth.”
—Irv Katz, executive director, National Collaboration for Youth
---------------------------------------------
“Peter Benson’s Sparks is an insightful, step-by-step guide for parents who want to help their teenagers be happier and more engaged but aren’t sure how to go about it. His discussion of young people’s ability to make the world a better place is thoughtful and right on target. Sparks deserves to be read by all adults looking for ways to inspire (and be inspired by) today’s youth.”
—Kathy Cloninger, CEO, Girl Scouts of the USA
---------------------------------------------
“Peter Benson's pioneering work has long been an inspiration for all who are dedicated to bringing out the highest potential in our young, and his new book importantly advances this crucial mission. The book is a wellspring of illuminating insight, sound practical advice, and a stirring call to action for raising the younger generation with the wise guidance they deserve.”
—William Damon, Ph.D., professor and director of the Stanford Center on Adolescence and author of The Path to Purpose
---------------------------------------------
"Dr. Benson provides us with yet another insightful and powerful set of ideas to help us all “grow great kids.” Evidence-based and empowering, the idea of sparks + support = success is something individuals, schools, and communities can all get behind to help our teenagers draft their “life script” into one of value and meaning. A breath of fresh air at a time when our teens are mostly perceived as unreachable, distant, and problematic, Sparks reminds us that all youth need and deserve caring adults who support them to find the spark within, and through this book, he provides us with effective tools for this sometimes not-so-easy journey."
—Judy Vredenburgh, president & CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Order the Book
Sparks is available through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other fine booksellers. Order Now!
Peek Inside
Watch the video
Dr. Benson discusses Sparks.
Tell us about your spark
What do you bring to the world that is good, beautiful, and useful? Share. . .
What people are saying
Lots of people have read the book—here's what they have to say.
Downloads & Resources
Conversation Starters - includes thoughts on finding the right moment and follow-through