a short story in the
Saturday Evening Post in April, 1916. Though it was the story of an
advertising man, it was quickly recognized as presenting a germ idea
basic to outstanding success in the business world and the
professions.
Harper & Brothers brought out the story in book form in
September of the year of its publication in the Post.
The book met with a ready sale. In reviewing it, the New York
Times said, "The young man who is going to seek his fortune in the
advertising business should have Obvious Adams for a handbook.
Indeed, any young man who is going to seek his fortune in anything
might be aided by the common sense and business acumen displayed
in this little volume."
"Obvious Adams" soon became a legendary character. He was
quoted in business conferences and at board meetings. Heads of
companies wrote the author to ask if the hero of the story was a real
person; that if he was they wanted to engage his services. His
"obviousness" influenced the thinking of some of the outstanding
industrial leaders of the day.
Fun Way Learning Press is now proud to publish a new Business Edition of this classic text, updating some of the author's original usage and including a Manager's Toolkit for the business owner or executive who wants to leverage the "obvious" in his or her own business.