To my way of thinking and working, the greatest service a piece of fiction can do any reader is to leave him with a higher ideal of life than he had when he began. If in one small degree it shows him where he can be...gentler, saner, cleaner, kindlier...it is a wonder-working book. If it opens his eyes to one beauty in nature he never saw for himself and leads him one step toward the God of the Universe, it is a beneficial book.
Gene Stratton-PorterTears were a blessing; they were a relief; they did wash the ache from the heart, ease brain strain, and encourage the soul.
Gene Stratton-Porterthere was nothing in the whole world so dreadful as the power of riches wrongly used.
Gene Stratton-PorterI write as the birds sing, because I must, and usually from the same source of inspiration.
Gene Stratton-PorterI don't so much mind the falling, but I do seem to select the hardest spots to light on.
Gene Stratton-Porter