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.