Book Quote by L. Frank Baum
“Some of my youthful readers are developing wonderful imaginations. This pleases me. When I was young I longed to write a great novel that should win me fame. Now that I am getting old my first book is written to amuse children. For aside from my evident inability to do anything "great," I have learned to regard fame as a will-o-the-wisp which, when caught, is not worth the possession; but to please a child is a sweet and lovely thing that warms one's heart and brings its own reward.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Joy of Writing for Children" (1905)
Fame is fleeting; delighting children offers lasting, heartfelt reward.
In simple terms: Pleasuring children is more rewarding than fame.
Key Takeaway
Focus on creating joy for younger audiences.
Themes
humility
creativity
legacy
Mood
warm
reflective
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- children’s literature
- mentor programs
Key Concepts
childhood wonder
literary purpose
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How does writing for children shape your artistic voice?
- What does fame mean to you now?
A Different Perspective
May overlook broader impact beyond child audience.
