In 'The Promise of a Pencil', Adam Braun shares his transformative journey from a Wall Street professional to a social entrepreneur dedicated to education. Inspired by a childhood encounter with a child in India, he commits to building schools around the world, driven by the belief that pencils can change lives. The book blends personal anecdotes with practical wisdom, encouraging readers to embrace their own purpose and impact. Braun's heartfelt storytelling uncovers the challenges and triumphs of creating a global movement. Will you discover the power of your own pencil and the promise it holds?
By Carlye Adler, Adam Braun
Published: 2015
"The greatest journeys often begin with a single, simple act of kindness."
This the story of how a young man turned $25 into more than 200 schools around the world and the guiding steps anyone can take to lead a successful and significant life. The author began working summers at hedge funds when he was just sixteen years old, sprinting down the path to a successful Wall Street career. But while traveling he met a young boy begging on the streets of India, who after being asked what he wanted most in the world, simply answered, "A pencil." This small request led to a staggering series of events that took the author backpacking through dozens of countries before eventually leaving one of the world's most prestigious jobs at Bain & Company to found Pencils of Promise, the organization he started with just $25 that has since built more than 200 schools around the world. This book chronicles the author's journey to find his calling, as each chapter explains one clear step that every person can take to turn your biggest ambitions into reality, even if you start with as little as $25. His story takes readers behind the scenes with business moguls and village chiefs, world-famous celebrities and hometown heroes. It is filled with compelling stories and shareable insights. All proceeds from this book support Pencils of Promise.
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“The greatest journeys often begin with a single, simple act of kindness.”
The Promise of a Pencil
By Carlye Adler, Adam Braun
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Carlye Adler is an accomplished author and journalist known for her insightful commentary and engaging storytelling. She has written notable works such as 'The Future of the Food Revolution' and her essays and articles have appeared in prominent publications like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and O, The Oprah Magazine. Adler's writing style blends narrative flair with keen analysis, often exploring themes of social change, food systems, and cultural dynamics. Her ability to connect with readers on both intellectual and emotional levels has made her a respected voice in contemporary literature.
Adam Braun is an accomplished author and social entrepreneur, best known for his bestselling book "The Promise of a Pencil: How an Ordinary Person Can Create Extraordinary Change." In this inspiring memoir, he shares his journey from corporate life to founding Pencils of Promise, a global organization that builds schools in developing countries. Braun's writing is characterized by its heartfelt narrative and a focus on empowerment and positive change. He has been featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times and Forbes, and is a sought-after speaker on topics of philanthropy and education.
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