G.K. Chesterton was an English writer, philosopher, lay theologian, and literary and art critic, born on May 29th, 1874, in Kensington, London. His body of work includes philosophy, ontology, poetry, plays, journalism, public lectures and debates, literary and art criticism, biographies, Christian apologetics, and fiction, including fantasy and detective fiction. Chesterton has been often referred to as the 'prince of paradox' for his ability to turn a phrase on its head and expose the underlying truths of a subject. 'The Ball and the Cross' (1909) is one of his earlier novels which exemplifies his style of juxtaposing serious intellectual debate with whimsical story-telling. It reflects Chesterton's own Christian beliefs, intellectual rigor, and a great fondness for debating issues of faith and ethics. In this book, as in many of his works, Chesterton questions popular trends in philosophy and society, and advocates for a return to more traditional, faith-based, holistic modes of thinking and living. A prolific writer, Chesterton's works, such as 'Orthodoxy' (1908) and 'The Man Who Was Thursday' (1908), continue to be read for both their literary flair and philosophical depth. He died on June 14, 1936, but remains an enduring figure in both literary circles and Christian apologetics.