Thorne Smith, born James Thorne Smith Jr. on March 27, 1892, in Annapolis, Maryland, United States, was a prolific American writer of humorous supernatural fantasy fiction. Best known for his Topper novels, Smith's witty narratives often blend the commonplace with the uncanny, leading to delightful and outlandish scenarios. 'Skin and Bones' (1933), one of Smith's acclaimed works, is a quintessential example of his literary style, where he explores the humorous possibilities of an advertising agent who finds himself transformed into a walking skeleton. His novels typically revolve around characters who encounter the supernatural, yet his treatment of these elements is farcical rather than frightening, which became a hallmark of his writing style. Smith's influence extends beyond literature; his works have inspired numerous films and television series, particularly during Hollywood's golden age. Despite his early death at the age of 42 on June 21, 1934, Smith's legacy as a master of satirical and fantastical narratives endures. He is often remembered for his ability to inject a sense of the absurd into everyday situations, and his works remain a testament to his unique talent for blending humor with the supernatural. His novels have not only entertained generations of readers but have also contributed to the establishment of comedic fantasy as a respected genre within American literature.