Audiobook Sample

Listen to the sample to experience the story.

Please wait while we verify your browser...

Dear fellow seekers of wisdom and literature enthusiasts,

As a literature professor deeply immersed in the exploration of cultural narratives and the evolution of storytelling, I find myself continually drawn to works that transcend time and offer profound insights into the human condition. Wallace D. Wattles’ ‘The Science of Being Great’ is one such gem, a text that resonates with the timeless quest for personal development and self-actualization. Narrated by Diana Majlinger, this audiobook experience brings Wattles’ philosophical treatise to life in a manner that is both accessible and deeply engaging.

### Initial Impressions

Upon first encountering ‘The Science of Being Great,’ I was struck by its deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful message. Wattles, a prominent figure in the New Thought movement, posits that greatness is not an elusive trait reserved for the few but a natural right accessible to all. This idea immediately reminded me of my year as a visiting professor in Tokyo, where I discovered the works of Haruki Murakami. Reading ‘Kafka on the Shore’ in both English and Japanese opened my eyes to how language shapes narrative perception. Similarly, Wattles’ message transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, offering universal truths that are as relevant today as they were in 1910.

### Personal Connection to the Book’s Themes

The central themes of ‘The Science of Being Great’—greatness as a natural right, the power of thought, self-esteem, and service to others—resonate deeply with my own academic journey. During my Contemporary Fiction seminar at Berkeley, we explored how different mediums affect storytelling. Comparing the traditional book, ebook, and audiobook versions of ‘Cloud Atlas’ led to fascinating discussions about how format influences narrative structure and reader engagement. This audiobook format of Wattles’ work similarly enhances the text’s accessibility and impact, making its profound ideas more digestible for a modern audience.

### Analysis of Key Themes and Content

Wattles’ philosophy is grounded in the belief that our thoughts and beliefs directly influence our actions and circumstances. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive mindset, self-esteem, and confidence as essential components of achieving greatness. Living in harmony with the ‘Formless Substance’—a universal intelligence or energy—is another key concept, advocating for positive thought and action to attract abundance and greatness.

The book also underscores the significance of service to others as a pathway to personal fulfillment. Wattles believes that by contributing to the well-being of others, individuals can expand their own potential and achieve greater success. This altruistic approach reminded me of the Japanese concept of ‘ikigai,’ or ‘reason for being,’ which emphasizes living a life of purpose and service.

### Narrator Performance and Audio Quality Assessment

Diana Majlinger’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her clear, articulate delivery and measured pacing make Wattles’ complex ideas accessible and engaging. Majlinger’s ability to convey the text’s philosophical depth without overwhelming the listener is commendable. The audio quality is excellent, ensuring a seamless listening experience that enhances the book’s impact.

### Balanced Perspective on Strengths and Limitations

While ‘The Science of Being Great’ offers timeless wisdom, it is not without its limitations. Some readers may find Wattles’ approach overly simplistic, lacking the nuanced analysis of modern psychology and self-help literature. Additionally, the book’s language and concepts, rooted in the early 20th century, may feel somewhat dated to contemporary audiences. However, these criticisms do not detract from the book’s enduring relevance and profound insights.

### Comparison with Similar Works

Wattles’ work shares similarities with other influential self-help books, such as Napoleon Hill’s ‘Think and Grow Rich’ and James Allen’s ‘As a Man Thinketh.’ These texts collectively emphasize the power of positive thinking and personal responsibility, forming the cornerstone of the modern self-help movement. Wattles’ focus on service to others, however, sets his work apart, offering a more altruistic perspective on achieving greatness.

### Recommendations for Potential Listeners

This audiobook is ideal for anyone seeking inspiration and practical guidance on personal development. Whether you are a seasoned self-help enthusiast or new to the genre, Wattles’ timeless wisdom, combined with Majlinger’s excellent narration, offers a compelling listening experience. The availability of this audiobook for free on LibriVox makes it an accessible resource for all.

### Personal Reflection

Listening to ‘The Science of Being Great’ has been a reaffirming experience, reminding me of the power of positive thought and the importance of service to others. It has inspired me to incorporate these principles into my teaching and academic work, fostering a more supportive and empowering environment for my students.

### Personalized Closing

With scholarly appreciation and a renewed sense of purpose,

Prof. Emily Chen

With scholarly appreciation and a renewed sense of purpose,nProf. Emily Chen