In ‘Ghosts I Have Met and Some Others, ‘ John Kendrick Bangs weaves a captivating tapestry of humor and the supernatural, blending anecdotal storytelling with rich, whimsical prose. Set against a backdrop of the late 19th-century fascination with spiritualism, the book presents a series of encounters with ghosts that simultaneously entertain and provoke thought about the nature of existence and the afterlife. Bangs employs a satirical literary style, employing wit and irony, which allows him to navigate the serious themes of life and death in a light-hearted manner, making his ghostly encounters both delightful and thought-provoking. Bangs, a prominent American author, humorist, and editor, was deeply influenced by the cultural milieu of his time, which saw an explosion of interest in the supernatural. His experiences as a writer for various periodicals and his keen sense of the absurd allowed him to craft narratives that resonate with both intellect and emotion. This background, coupled with his own scathing observations of society, informs the playful yet reflective nature of the stories presented in this collection. ‘Ghosts I Have Met and Some Others’ is a must-read for those intrigued by the intersection of humor and the macabre. Readers are invited to explore Bangs’ clever critiques and charming narratives that offer not only ghostly encounters but also a unique commentary on the human condition. Engaging and entertaining, this collection stands as a testament to Bangs’ literary prowess and his ability to illuminate life’s mysteries through a spectral lens.