
audiobook
by P. T. (Phineas Taylor) Barnum
In this straightforward guide the author argues that while the opportunities to earn a living are plentiful, the real challenge lies in preserving what you earn. He breaks down the notion of “economy” into clear, everyday habits, warning against the classic trap of being penny‑wise and pound‑foolish. The tone is conversational, peppered with vivid illustrations from 19th‑century life that make the principles feel both timeless and relatable.
Readers are invited to adopt simple habits—wearing clothes a little longer, mending what’s broken, and setting aside even a modest surplus for interest. By treating every penny saved as a seed that can grow, the book shows how small, consistent choices accumulate into financial independence. It offers a pragmatic roadmap for anyone ready to turn ambition into a sustainable, self‑reliant future.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (74K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Wayne N. Keyser in honor of his Parents, Clifton B. and Esther N. Keyser; and David Widger
Release date
2005-07-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1810–1891
A born showman and tireless promoter, this 19th-century American impresario turned publicity into an art form. His life mixed entertainment, business ambition, politics, and a talent for telling stories that still shape how people think about popular spectacle.
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