As a Man Thinketh, James Allen's most famous book was originally published in 1902. It is now considered a self-help classic. Allen believed that man is the master-gardener of his soul and the director of his life. His thoughts profoundly affect his character, physical health, achievement, circumstances and even his destiny. Man must tend the garden of his mind, weeding out the bad and pursuing perfection. Although Allen never achieved great fame or wealth, his works continue to influence people around the world, including the New Thought movement. "A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts." ' James Allen