“The secret of joy in work is contained in one word — excellence.”

— Pearl S. Buck, The Joy of Children, 1966

About Pearl S. Buck

1892 – 1973

American novelist, Nobel laureate in Literature (1938), author of "The Good Earth".

“The really brave man simply acts brave—he doesn't have to talk about it.”

“A man is educated and turned out to work. But a woman is educated — and turned out to grass.”

“Men and women should own the world as a mutual possession.”

“The great end of all human industry, is the attainment of happiness.”

“The happiness of men consists in life. And life is in labor.”

“Why does this magnificent applied science which saves work and makes life easier bring us so little happiness?”

“I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.”

“Give us the tools and we will finish the job.”

“Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably.”