James Johnstone (publisher)

James Johnstone was a Scottish publisher active primarily in the late 18th century. He was based in London and specialized in publishing inexpensive editions of classic and contemporary works, often targeted at a wider reading public than previous, more expensive editions.

Johnstone is particularly noted for his role in popularizing Scottish literature. He published works by writers such as James Macpherson (including his Ossian poems), Robert Burns, and Allan Ramsay. His editions often aimed to make these works more accessible through their affordability and format.

Beyond Scottish literature, Johnstone also published a range of other materials, including periodicals and political pamphlets. He was known to be a somewhat controversial figure, sometimes engaging in publishing practices that were viewed as unethical or infringing on the copyrights of other publishers. Despite these controversies, he played a significant role in the development of the book trade and the expansion of literacy during his time.

His business appears to have declined in the early 19th century. Details of his personal life and the exact dates of his birth and death remain somewhat obscure.