A photographer’s freak accident in the dark room produces a chemical concoction causing him and his dog to randomly switch back and forth between normal and skeleton versions of themselves. Much drinking and cavorting ensues, as he finds people able to see beyond his appearance and appreciate him for who he is, while inadvertently terrifying others.

James Thorne Smith, Jr. (March 27, 1892 – June 21, 1934) was an American writer of humorous supernatural fantasy fiction under the byline Thorne Smith. He is best known today for his two Topper novels and comic fantasy fiction involving sex, much drinking and supernatural transformations. With racy illustrations, these sold millions of copies in the 1930s and were equally popular in paperbacks of the 1950s. His most popular work, Topper, was not only a favorite book, but it was also adapted into a successful movie with two sequels, a top radio program and a popular TV series.

Thorne’s impact can be felt in the writings of authors as diverse as Robert Bloch, Neil Gaiman, and James Thurber. Other works influenced by him include the cartoons Beetle Bailey, Sad Sack and Casper the Friendly Ghost and the TV shows Bewitched, Mr. Ed, and I Dream of Jeannie.

Readers who enjoy Thorne Smith’s humor might also enjoy his books Turnabout, The Stray Lamb, or Topper here at Faded Page. More titles are currently in the proofing rounds. We invite you to come join us and proof a few pages to help us bring more public domain titles like these to Canada. For more information about how to volunteer, check out our companion site, Distributed Proofreaders Canada.