Jack Sharkey was an American boxer turned novelist, born in New York City in 1902. Sharkey's career as a boxer spanned from 1924 to 1936, during which he became the heavyweight champion of the world. However, after retiring from the sport, Sharkey turned to writing, producing over 60 novels in a variety of genres. "The Business, As Usual" is one such work, offering a humorous and whimsical portrayal of life in a small Midwestern town. Sharkey's writing style is marked by his colorful characters and wit, making him a popular author in his time.