Zane Grey (January 31, 1872 – October 23, 1939) was a prolific American author best known for his popular adventure novels and stories that presented an idealized image of the rugged Old West. Born as Pearl Zane Grey in Zanesville, Ohio, he initially pursued a career in dentistry after attending the University of Pennsylvania on a baseball scholarship. However, Grey's passion for writing and the American frontier led him to abandon his dental practice and become a full-time author. His breakthrough came with the success of 'Riders of the Purple Sage' (1912), considered his greatest work and a seminal Western novel. Zane Grey's name became synonymous with the Western genre, shaping its myths and traditions with his vivid descriptions, historical detail, and romanticized narratives. 'The Light of the Western Stars' (1914), one of his many novels, exemplifies Grey's literary style, composed of robust characterizations, dramatic settings, and a blend of adventure and romance. Grey's books were a significant influence on the genre and have been adapted into numerous films, shaping the popular perception of the American West. His prolific output totaled more than 90 books, and the Zane Grey's West Society is dedicated to preserving his legacy and promoting interest in his work and the American frontier.