James Allen (1864 - 1912) was a writer of inspirational books and poetry. Born in Leicester, England, At age 38, he retired from employment and he and his wife moved to a small cottage in Ilfracombe, of Devon, England to pursue a simple life of contemplation. There he wrote for 9 years producing over 20 works. James Allen died in 1912, at age 48. Allen's most famous book, As a Man Thinketh, was published in 1902. It is now considered a classic self-help book. Its underlying premise is that noble thoughts make a noble person, lowly thoughts make a miserable person. In short: you are what you think.
Widely considered one of the early cornerstones of the personal development movement, Allen's books illustrate the power of thought to have immense capabilities. A favorite among 20th self help practioners from Norman Vincent Peale onward, James Allen's works continue to influence people around the world.