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Wise Decisions
The Millionaire Janitor follows a humble and hardworking janitor from South Chicago who navigates the harsh realities of life with grit, old-fashioned values, and a relentless focus on wise financial decisions on his journey from poverty to financial stability. In many contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in Horatio’s story?
There’s definitely an element of personal experience. Because I grew up poor in money (but rich in many other areas of life), Horatio does somewhat reflect my life experience. I know what it means to be a janitor! The last chapter accurately reflects where my wife and I are now … able to spend winters in a lovely part of the US (where the photo on the book was taken). So, yes, the “element” is there, but the rest is pure fiction.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The “Seven Pillars” were the important ideas I really wanted to emphasize for young people / young couples. Family, career, wisdom, values, community, health, and, of course, finance. Too many (including myself in my 20s) think that life will go on forever … I want youth to know life goes quickly and they need to make wise decisions (financial and otherwise) in their teens and early 20s.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Interesting that you ask. Just this afternoon, I was continuing my work on Diamond Nine. It starts out as a baseball story but focuses on life decisions made by the players. I’m hoping to have it out by the end of the year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
From poverty’s grip to unshakable resilience, Horatio Jefferson will redefine success.
On the unforgiving streets of South Chicago, Horatio Alger Jefferson was born into a world of struggle and survival. Raised by his fiercely determined mother, Emily, Horatio learned the values of hard work, faith, and perseverance. With a name inspired by tales of rags-to-riches, Horatio’s own journey mirrors the dreams his mother envisioned despite every hurdle life threw their way.
From a humble janitor to a man destined for greatness, Horatio’s story is one of love, sacrifice, and unyielding ambition. Guided by his steadfast relationship with Melody, the woman who captures his heart, and bolstered by the values instilled by his community, Horatio learns that wealth isn’t just a matter of dollars—it’s also measured out in love, community, and purpose.
Perfect for readers who crave inspiring tales of personal growth and unwavering determination, Millionaire Janitor will leave you reflecting on life’s true riches.
Grab your copy today and discover how Horatio turns dreams into reality!
His website is
lornbergstresser.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lorn.bergstresser
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorn-bergstresser-338b26/
Millionaire Janitor: Unlocking the Hidden Wealth in Everyday Choices
The Millionaire Janitor is a modern-day rags-to-riches story centered on Horatio Alger Jefferson, a humble and hardworking janitor, and his journey from poverty to financial stability. Set against the backdrop of gritty South Chicago, the novel follows Horatio and his partner Melody as they navigate the harsh realities of life with grit, old-fashioned values, and a relentless focus on wise financial decisions. It blends a narrative style with life lessons and financial principles, using Horatio’s fictional rise as a metaphor for the real-world potential of the average American to build wealth through discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance.
What struck me first was how charmingly simple the prose is. Bergstresser avoids flashy language and highbrow metaphors, opting instead for straightforward storytelling laced with warmth and earnestness. This isn’t literary fiction; it’s closer to an extended parable with heart. The writing may come across as a bit heavy-handed at times—some might say even moralistic—but it works within the context. There’s a homespun, almost old-school feel to it, reminiscent of stories your grandpa might tell at the kitchen table. The characters are endearing. Horatio, in particular, is drawn with such gentle sincerity that I found myself rooting for him early on.
Where the book really earns its keep is in its ideas. Bergstresser uses fiction to deliver practical, no-nonsense financial wisdom. There are detailed lessons here—how to budget, why modest living matters, and the magic of compound interest. It feels like The Millionaire Next Door had a baby with The Pursuit of Happyness. I appreciated how the story elevates the ordinary and dignifies blue-collar work, especially in a time when that’s not always the message young readers hear. There were moments where the tone crossed from encouraging to sermonizing. Still, I admire the author’s guts in taking a stand for values that aren’t always in vogue.
I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to teens and young adults starting out in life, especially those facing tough odds. It’s also great for parents and teachers looking for a clean, values-rich story that teaches life lessons without being dry. If you’re someone who likes your inspiration with a dose of practicality, you’ll enjoy this. It’s full of heart, full of hope, and packed with the kind of wisdom that never really goes out of style.
Pages: 162 | ASIN : B0DZW5HVYB
LITERARY TITAN 