Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen ​

Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen are American inspirational speakers and authors. They are best known as the co-creators of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, which comprises of multitudes of books, featuring inspirational true stories. The series has sold over 500 million copies worldwide in various languages.

Quick Facts ​

• Co-authors of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.
• Combined sales of their books, audios, and videos have sold over 500 million copies worldwide.
• Their books are translated into more than 40 languages.
• They are multiple New York Times best-selling authors.
• Known for inspirational and motivational non-fiction literature.

Background ​

Canfield and Hansen were both born in the 1940s in the United States. Canfield was born in West Virginia and graduated from Harvard University. He became a high school teacher and later a psychotherapist. Hansen was born in Illinois and graduated from Southern Illinois University. He was a salesman, entrepreneur and motivational speaker.

Both were influenced by the principles of positive thinking and personal development. In 1993, they co-authored their first book, "Chicken Soup for the Soul". The book quickly became a bestselling phenomenon and launched a series of more than 200 titles, translated into more than 40 languages, and sold more than 500 million copies worldwide. Despite the success of their series, they faced criticism for their simplistic and overly positive outlook. Nevertheless, they continued to inspire millions with their uplifting stories. They often collaborate with other authors to produce new editions of the "Chicken Soup" series.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Canfield and Hansen are best known for their "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series. The books are characterized by uplifting and inspirational true stories, narrated in a simple and relatable fashion that resonates with readers. They are known for their positive, feel-good approach towards self-help, personal growth and motivation. Their work has had a significant impact in the self-help book industry, spawning an entire genre of inspirational narrative non-fiction.

Notable Works ​

• Chicken Soup for the Soul series (1993- present)
• The Success Principles (2005)
• A 2nd Helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul (1994)
• Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul (1997)
• Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul (1996)