
ECLECTIC SCHOOL READINGS: STORIES FROM LIFE - A BOOK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
BY - ORISON SWETT MARDEN
PREFACE
STORIES FROM LIFE
TO-DAY
"THE MILL BOY OF THE SLASHES"
THE GREEK SLAVE WHO WON THE OLIVE CROWN
TURNING POINTS IN THE LIFE OF A HERO - I. THE FIRST TURNING POINT
HE AIMED HIGH AND HIT THE MARK
THE EVOLUTION OF A VIOLINIST
A vivid anthology of short, real‑life sketches, this volume invites young listeners to meet a handful of ordinary people whose determination turned modest beginnings into lasting examples. From a mill boy who wrestles with hardship to a Greek slave who earns an olive crown, each tale offers a glimpse of the choices and moments that shaped a brighter future. The stories are framed by a gentle reminder that the true aim of ambition is a noble life built on honest effort and the wise use of time.
The collection strings together diverse paths— a budding violinist’s evolution, the relentless curiosity of a young printer, and the steadfast patience of a future journalist—showing how perseverance, faith, and a willingness to learn can overcome even the darkest circumstances. Listeners are left with a clear message: every day holds the promise of personal growth, and the smallest actions today can become the foundations of tomorrow’s greatness.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (273K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Robert Rowe, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. HTML version by Al Haines
Release date
2003-10-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1848–1924
Best known for writing about ambition, character, and self-improvement, this early success writer helped shape the language of positive thinking in America. His books and the magazine he founded aimed to encourage readers to build practical habits as well as confidence.
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