With the current abundance of motivational coaches, talk shows, and "positivity" seminars, it is hard to believe that such things were once not as common as they are today. Yet before "affirmations" and "visualization" became a part of our everyday language, a man by the name of James Allen blazed a trail that so many others would later follow. Allen is most widely known for his seminal book, As a Man Thinketh, which teaches readers the immense power of the conscious mind. The downside to the popularity of this classic title is that many people are unfamilar with his other works, some of which dig deeper into important issues, like recovering from adversity. From Poverty to Power is one of those works. Allen takes readers on another journey of self discovery in this empowering text. Allen explores the power of the conscious mind in transforming the conditions of one's life and how one can harness all of their innate powers. This edition is further enhanced with an introduction by C'BS ALife that firmly sets the context of this writing by James Allen in time and space. Readers will understand how and why the message of James Allen arose when it did, how this message remains unique even in today's atmosphere of "positive thinking," why these teachings are especially relevant today, and - most importantly - how we can harness them now.

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James Allen (1864 1912) was a philosophical writer of British nationality known for his inspirational books and poetry. Allen 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. He later married Lily L. Allen and became an executive secretary for a large company. At age 38, inspired by the writings of Leo Tolstoy, he retired from employment. Allen along with his wife and their daughter, Nohra moved to a small cottage in Ilfracombe, Devon, England to pursue a simple life of contemplation. There he wrote for nine years, producing 19 works. He also edited and published a magazine, "The Light of Reason". Allen's books illustrate the use of the power of thought to increase personal capabilities. Although he never achieved great fame or wealth, his works continue to influence people around the world, including the New Thought movement. 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, while lowly thoughts make a miserable person. Although As a Man Thinketh is Allen's most widely recognised book, it is probably From Poverty to Power (1901) which most accurately reflects his New Thought movement affiliations.
C'BS Alife Allah is an award-winning blogger, with a long history in the leadership of several youth service organizations.