Think and Grow Rich (Think and Grow Rich (Audio)) About the Author Napoleon Hill (1883-1970) was born in a one-room cabin on the Pound River in Wise County, Virginia. He began his writing career at age 13 as a "mountain reporter" for small town newspapers and went on to become America's most beloved motivational author. His classic work, Think and Grow Rich, continues to inspire millions to believe and achieve and is a cornerstone of the modern self-actualization movement. Before passing, Hill established the Foundation as a nonprofit educational institution whose mission is to perpetuate his philosophy of leadership, self-motivation, and individual achievement.