In addition, the vocabulary and sentence structure of scholars in Henty's time were far superior to those of most writers today. While the reader is enjoying a tale of adventure and learning history, he is also subconsciously learning his writing and reading skills by means of the example set by the writer. It is by emulation of others that these skills are best obtained, and Henty sets a superb example - while strongly holding the student's attention.

Grammar and spelling books cannot compete with the verbal skills that a student acquires from the books and spoken words that attract his greatest interest. While a student may learn to answer test questions appropriately, it is the verbal abilities that he actually adopts and applies to everyday life that will determine his future. It is these skills that G. A. Henty effectively improves.