This collection aims to provide a comprehensive resource for individuals preparing for prize-speaking contests by compiling over one hundred successful pieces. Authored by Asa H. Craig, a figure associated with elocution and public speaking in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this work draws upon a curated selection of speeches and recitations that have demonstrably achieved success in competitive settings. The book's primary argument is that by studying and performing these proven pieces, aspiring speakers can gain a significant advantage in their own contests. The compilation serves as a practical guide, offering a wealth of material for practice and performance.

This collection is presented as a historical resource for public speaking and elocution, offering a curated selection of pieces that have previously won awards. The publisher, Forgotten Books, utilizes modern technology to reproduce these classic works, aiming to preserve their original form while correcting imperfections. The book's value lies in its compilation of proven material for competitive speaking, suggesting its utility for students and educators in the field of oratory. Its re-publication indicates a continued interest in the historical methods and content of public speaking.