Want to impress your parents? Your friends? Your teachers? The college admissions office? Of course you do! Brain Spark is a collection of short readings on major topics that are critical for a well-rounded mind. Focusing on people, places, and important concepts, Brain Spark helps teenagers and young adults make sense of adult conversations and news events. The stories are short, fun and easy to read. In addition, the information sticks thanks to "spaced repetition" - the scientifically supported method of long-term memory enhancement proven to help maximize the retention of information. This is accomplished with memory-triggering questions throughout the book. Cultural literacy is critical to success in an increasingly competitive world and broadens all of our horizons. Get ready to feel the Brain Spark!Did you know that: former Vice President Dick Cheney accidentally shot his friend in the face, while hunting? the Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar designed his own prison with jacuzzis, a soccer field, and waterfalls? the French General de Gaulle dressed up as a nurse to try to escape a German Prisoner of War camp? Nelson Mandela lived in a 7 by 8 foot jail cell, with only a straw mat to sleep on, for 18 years? This book series is perfect for the middle school, junior high school, high school and college years. Homeschool parents rely on it to fill in the gaps of their curriculum, as it makes for an easy, entertaining and educational read. It is filled with fun facts and trivia, with a focus on biographies and famous people, especially if you love history and culture!