James Allen (author)

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James Allen (November 28, 1864 - 1912) was a writer of inspirational books and poetry. Born in Leicester, England, James was 15 when his father, a businessman, was robbed and murdered. He left school to work full-time in several British manufacturing firms to help support the family. Eventually he married and became an executive secretary for a large company. 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.

A philosophical writer of British nationality who remains a hardly recognised author, James Allen's books illustrate the power of thought to have immense capabilities. Although he never achieved great fame or wealth, his works continue to influence people around the world.