Bones and I: or, the skeleton at home

Bones and I, or The Skeleton at Home is a humorous novel written by G. J. Whyte-Melville, a 19th-century British author known for his sporting and comedic works. This novel was first published in 1868.

The story is a satirical and comedic exploration of the experiences of the protagonist, Jack Raggles, who comes into possession of a human skeleton. Jack, a country squire with a penchant for pranks and jokes, inherits the skeleton from his late uncle, Sir Tancred Raggles. With the arrival of the skeleton, Jack's life takes a comically macabre turn as he incorporates the skeleton into various absurd and humorous situations. He uses it as a source of amusement, incorporating it into his daily life, and even introducing it as a family member.

The novel is a blend of humor, satire, and absurdity, and it lampoons the British upper class and their eccentricities. It's known for its comedic and lighthearted tone, with the skeleton serving as a central element of humor throughout the story. Bones and I is a product of its time, reflecting the comedic literature of the Victorian era and the taste for wit, humor, and satire. It is often appreciated for its light-hearted and entertaining narrative, as it pokes fun at societal conventions and eccentricity.