A classic in the self-improvement genre. Why does one person succeed while another fails in the same endeavor? While taking a trip down the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Russell Conwell's guide (who was found of telling stories) told him the tale of Ali Hafed who left his farm and family in search of wealth and died alone and in poverty years later. The man who purchased his farm after his death found the world's richest diamond mine there. Conwell goes on to tell the stories of several people in America who suffered similar fates, as well as success stories of those who found advantages in their circumstances instead of excuses. Sure to inspire some soul-searching, "Acres of Diamonds" just may help you discover the treasure in your own backyard.