author
John A. (John Albert) Cone
1860–1928
Remembered in Maine both as an educator and a writer, he moved easily between school leadership, journalism, and popular advice books. His work reflects an era when public speaking, manners, and self-improvement were treated as practical skills worth teaching.
1 Audiobook
The Man Who Pleases and the Woman Who Charms
by John A. (John Albert) Cone
About the author
For many years he was a well-known figure in Maine education. Bowdoin College honored him as superintendent of schools for Brunswick and Topsham and noted his service as president of the Maine Teachers' Association, recognizing the influence he had on public education in the state.
He also wrote for general readers as well as teachers. His best-known book today is The Man Who Pleases and the Woman Who Fascinates (also published in editions as The Man Who Pleases and the Woman Who Charms), and he wrote A Superintendent's Suggestions to Teachers, which reflects his practical interest in the everyday work of schools.
Local historical sources show how strongly he was associated with Topsham: the John A. Cone School was named in his honor, and his wife, Augusta Cone, was also a teacher and principal. Some book-trade and archival sources describe him as editor and proprietor of the Bowdoinham News, suggesting a career that reached beyond the classroom into local journalism and public life.