Information about the life of Wallace D. Wattles is limited, but his impact on those who read his books is infinite. A post-civil war baby born in America, Wattles faced multiple failures during his early years. Eventually, his attention was taken up by the study of international philosophies and belief systems. His studies included the works of Descartes, Emerson, Hegel, Leibnitz, Schopenhauer, and Spinoza. From his wide-ranging studies and his own personal experimentation, Wattles developed what are today called "New Thought" principles.

In his various books covering everything from wealth to health, he outlined these principles making them easily accessible to everyone. His best-known work is "The Science of Getting Rich," a classic focusing on personal prosperity and success. It is in this well-known volume that Wattles gives the reader specific instruction in straightforward language how to become rich.

By the end of the book, the reader is confirmed in his confidence that he can be rich, and in fact, it is to the benefit of the whole universe that he achieves wealth. Make no mistake about it: poverty or wealth, this is your choice, and it behooves you to choose wealth.

After publishing "The Science of Getting Rich" in 1910, Wattles was soon laid to rest. What he has left us in his books is an inspirational collection of practical and easy-to-apply information for creating our best life. His writing has influenced the success and self-development literature for nearly a century, yet his guidance is useful and applicable even today.