James Allen (28 November 1864 – 24 January 1912) was a British philosophical writer known for his inspirational books and poetry and as a pioneer of the self-help movement.

In 1879, following a downturn in the textile trade of central England, Allen's father travelled alone to America to find work and establish a new home for the family.

In 1898 Allen found an occupation in which he could showcase his spiritual and social interests as a writer for the magazine, The Herald of the Golden Age.

Loosely based on the biblical passage of Proverbs 23:7, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he," the small work eventually became read around the world and brought Allen posthumous fame as one of the pioneering figures of modern inspirational thought.

The book's minor audience allowed Allen to quit his secretarial work and pursue his writing and editing career.