Topper was Thorne Smith's best selling work. Between 1926 and 1932, Topper sold 2,560,806 copies. It was reprinted by Grosset and Dunlap 11 times between 1936 and 1942. In may of 1939, Pocket Books secured the rights and ran more than 22 printings, selling an additional 1,564,000 copies. Not bad for an author that's been widely forgotten. Topper is the tale of Cosmo Topper, a middle aged hen-pecked husband stuck in a rut. Distressed when he realizes his life has fallen into a tragically dull routine, he storms out of the house, leaves his wife behind and takes a walk down the street. Down the road, he sees a tempting Phaeton for sale at the local garage. The garage owner mentions that car has recently been rebuilt after the tragic crash resulting in the death of it's previous owners, George and Marion Kerby. Topper recognizes the Kerby name and recalls their wild, ribald, partying ways. Desperate to change his life for the better, Topper buys the car on impulse even though he hasn't a clue how to drive. After taking a few quick lessons, he's off on the road, only to discover that he's not alone. The low-planed spirits of George and Marion are in the front seat with him, and the fun ensues. They drive to a deserted cottage in the country where they meet the Colonal, Mrs. Hart, and their dog, Oscar. They spend the next few days getting intoxicated, frolicking, and causing general mayhem in the local village. One of the most memorable characters of the bunch is Oscar, the dog who can't quite materialize. Read this book for the rest of the story - laugh, and enjoy.