The Cook Not Mad, or Rational Cookery, often referred to as "Canada’s first cookbook," was issued by publisher and book importer James Macfarlane in 1831. Macfarlane was born in Scotland and made his way to Kingston, Upper Canada after the War of 1812. In 1824 Macfarlane purchased the Kingston Chronicle, a popular tory paper at the time, in the hopes of carrying on British traditions in the colony. Beyond ownership of the Chronicle, Macfarlane was also involved in other projects in and around Kingston. He provided publicity for charitable organizations like the Dorcas Society and the Female Benevolent Society. Macfarlane also donated his time and much of his wealth to causes that promoted education and helped the poor. James Macfarlane's success, then, is largely attributed to his support and strong personal commitment to his community, local cultural organizations, and philanthropic endeavours.