Summary
The Greatest Salesman in the World, penned by Og Mandino, is a transformative self-help book that has captivated readers since its publication in 1968. This bestselling guide to success and salesmanship has sold over four million copies worldwide, cementing its place as a classic in the genre.
The book's unique structure consists of ten ancient scrolls, each containing wisdom passed down through generations. Mandino's work has been praised by industry leaders and motivational speakers for its ability to inspire and guide readers towards personal and professional growth.
While not directly adapted for film or television, The Greatest Salesman in the World has influenced countless individuals, including notable figures like actor Matthew McConaughey, who credits the book with changing his life. Its enduring popularity has led to a sequel, The Greatest Salesman in the World Part II: The End of the Story, published in 1988.
Plot
The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino tells the story of Hafid, a poor camel boy who rises to become the wealthiest merchant of his time. The tale begins with an elderly Hafid, now living in a luxurious palace, reflecting on his life and immense fortune. As he walks through his opulent home and warehouses filled with precious goods from around the world, Hafid decides it's time to share the secret of his success.
Hafid's journey to wealth and wisdom is revealed through a series of flashbacks. As a young camel boy, he encounters a great salesman named Pathros, who takes him under his wing. Pathros gives Hafid a set of ancient scrolls containing the wisdom of the world's greatest salesman. These scrolls become the foundation of Hafid's success, guiding him through life's challenges and teaching him the art of salesmanship.
The heart of the story lies in the ten scrolls, each containing a principle for success in both sales and life. Hafid must read each scroll three times a day for thirty days before moving on to the next. These scrolls cover topics such as forming good habits, greeting each day with love, persisting until success is achieved, and recognizing one's unique value. As Hafid applies these principles, he transforms from a humble camel boy into a master salesman and eventually the wealthiest merchant of his era.
The narrative concludes with Hafid passing on the scrolls to a young man, much as Pathros had done for him years before. This act of sharing the wisdom ensures that the cycle of success and mentorship continues, emphasizing the importance of passing knowledge to future generations. The story serves as both an inspirational tale and a practical guide for those seeking success in sales and in life.
Themes
The power of habit formation
Persistence and determination
Self-improvement and personal growth
Emotional intelligence and self-control
Gratitude and living in the present
The importance of action and initiative
Faith and spiritual guidance
Setting
Set primarily in ancient Damascus around 2,000 years ago, The Greatest Salesman in the World transports readers to a time of camel caravans and bustling marketplaces. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Middle East during the early years of Christianity, a period marked by trade routes connecting diverse cultures and civilizations.
While Damascus serves as the central location, the narrative also touches on other significant areas of the ancient world. References to Egypt, Arabia, Palmyra, and Babylon paint a vivid picture of the extensive trade networks that crisscrossed the region. These connections highlight the importance of commerce and the role of skilled merchants in this historical era.
Characters
Hafid: The protagonist and titular “greatest salesman in the world.” Hafid begins as a poor camel boy and rises to become a wealthy and successful merchant. Through his journey, he learns the ten ancient scrolls of success and wisdom. Hafid's story serves as the framework for the book's philosophical teachings.
Pathros: Hafid's mentor and the previous “greatest salesman in the world.” He passes on the ancient scrolls to Hafid and guides him on his path to success. Pathros represents wisdom and the importance of passing knowledge to future generations.
Erasmus: Hafid's loyal manager and friend. Erasmus assists Hafid in managing his vast business empire and serves as a confidant in Hafid's later years.
Lisha: Hafid's beloved wife. Though she doesn't appear directly in the main narrative, her influence on Hafid is significant, especially in his later years.
Paul: A young man who receives the scrolls from Hafid at the end of the book. Paul represents the continuation of the cycle of wisdom and success.
Quick facts
The book was first published in 1968 and has sold over 50 million copies worldwide.
It took Og Mandino only 19 days to write the entire manuscript.
Mandino wrote a sequel titled The Greatest Salesman in the World Part II: The End of the Story in 1988.
The book's primary message, “do it now,” is repeated 18 times in Scroll IX.
Mandino's own life story inspired the book, as he overcame alcoholism to become a successful author.
The audiobook rights were purchased by Success Motivation Institute in 1970.
If followed as instructed, it would take a reader approximately 10 months to complete the book.
About the Author
Og Mandino, born in 1923, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential self-help authors of the 20th century. After struggling with alcoholism and contemplating suicide, Mandino discovered self-help books that transformed his life. This personal journey inspired him to become a writer, eventually authoring more than a dozen books that have sold millions of copies worldwide.
Mandino's most famous work, The Greatest Salesman in the World, published in 1968, remains a classic in motivational literature. The book's unique format, presenting wisdom through ancient scrolls, has captivated readers for decades. Mandino's writing style, characterized by its simplicity and powerful messages, has made his books accessible to a wide audience.
Throughout his career, Mandino received numerous accolades for his contributions to inspirational literature. He was the first recipient of the Napoleon Hill Gold Medal for literary achievement and was inducted into the National Speakers Association's Hall of Fame. As the former president of Success Unlimited magazine, Mandino further solidified his position as a leader in the field of personal development.
Og Mandino passed away in 1996, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire people around the globe. His books, translated into numerous languages, remain popular among those seeking guidance in personal growth and success. Mandino's life story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of self-help literature.
