The famous lecture on looking closer to home
Acres of Diamonds is one of the best-known motivational talks ever given. Russell H. Conwell opens with the story of a farmer who sells his land to search the world for diamonds, only for a fortune in diamonds to be found on the farm he left behind. From that parable, Conwell argues that most people already stand on their own “acres of diamonds”: skills, local needs and opportunities they overlook because they’re too familiar.
The app lets you read the lecture and the chapters about Conwell that accompany it, in a clean reader that never needs the internet.
Who it’s for
It suits readers looking for a short burst of motivation, people thinking about starting something in their own town, students exploring classic speeches, and anyone who enjoys stories with a clear moral. The main lecture can be read in one sitting, which makes it a good first classic for readers new to the genre.
How to use it
- Open the app to see the chapter list with page counts and reading times.
- Tap “Acres of Diamonds” to read the lecture itself, or begin with “An Appreciation” for some background.
- Bookmark passages you’d like to revisit, then continue where you left off next time.
- Press and hold text to highlight, copy or share a line.
- In settings, switch on night mode and adjust the font and text size to read comfortably.
After reading, try listing a few needs in your own community that you could help meet. It’s a practical way to test Conwell’s idea for yourself.
Screenshots
Images from the app's Google Play listing. Scroll sideways to see them all.
Frequently asked questions
What is Acres of Diamonds?
It began as a lecture by Russell H. Conwell, a minister and the founder of Temple University in Philadelphia, who delivered it thousands of times. Its message is that opportunity is usually found close to home, in your own skills and community, rather than far away.
What else does the app include besides the lecture?
Alongside the Acres of Diamonds chapter itself, the chapter list includes further chapters about Conwell's life and work, starting with "An Appreciation".
Do I need the internet to read it?
No. The app works completely offline once installed.
Is the app free?
Yes. It's free and supported by ads. An optional one-time Premium purchase removes them.
Do I need an account?
No. There's nothing to sign up for.
How do I get help or report a problem?
Email support@grindstonestudio.com with the app's name, your phone model and a short description of the problem. We reply within 2 business days.