The Man Without a Country/A Message to Garcia and Other Essays: Cosy Corner

This concise, enlightening volume combines a short story and essays that present tales of patriotism, hard work, self-worth, and ingenuity.

The Man Without a Country, by Edward Everett Hale

Originally written in 1863 by a relative of patriot Nathan Hale, this story, according to the author, was created "for the single purpose of teaching young Americans what it is to have a country, what is the duty which they owe to that country, and how central that duty is among all the duties of their lives."

Philip Nolan, a fictional character also known as the man without a country, earned his distinction from the punishment handed down at his court-martial. In fact, his "punishment" was merely the fulfillment of his wishes as stated at the trial, when he declared, "I wish I may never hear of the United States again " The lessons learned as Nolan served his sentence--in exile, yet surrounded by his fellow countrymen--still inspire and move men today.

A Message to Garcia, by Elbert Hubbard

This book was written in a single hour to laud the real hero of the Cuban War: Rowan, the man who, without question or waver, delivered President McKinley's letter to Garcia, the leader of the insurgents. More than merely honoring one man, however, this story also sings the praises of virtues in all men: the ability to simply do a job, to do what is asked, to give your word, and to keep it.

After its initial publication as a series of magazine articles, the story proved so universally popular that more than forty million copies were quickly reproduced in pamphlet form, not only in English, but also in Japanese, Russian, German, and many other languages. Also included are "The Boy from Missouri Valley" and "Help Yourself by Helping the House," both of which extol loyalty to oneself and one's commitments.