James was most likely written by James, the brother of the Lord. This is most likely one of the earliest, if not the earliest, books written in the New Testament.
Similar to Jewish wisdom, or even Proverbs, James has a style of writing that tends to focus on mature Christian behavior, and is full of aphorisms (broad, often philosophical truths). There seem to be many call backs to Jesus' teaching (especially his "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew 5-7).
From undergoing trials with joy, to prayer & speech, and even to how to approach wealth, this book is full of putting God's truth into action.
Author: James (1:1), the Lord's brother
Audience: Christians with Jewish background (1:1)
Probable Date: late AD 40s
April 6 - James 1:1-8, Introduction & Mature Suffering
April 13 - James 1:12-18, Temptation