Dallas William Mayr, better known by his pen name Jack Ketchum, was an American horror fiction author renowned for his visceral and gut-wrenching tales. Born on November 10, 1946, Ketchum embarked on a diverse career path before finding his calling in literature. His journey included stints as an actor, teacher, literary agent, lumber salesman, and soda jerk. However, it was his childhood love of Elvis Presley, dinosaurs, and horror that sustained him through his formative years and ultimately inspired him to craft stories that would captivate and horrify readers worldwide.

Ketchum's novels, such as Off Season, Offspring, and Red, are noted not just for their stark portrayal of horror but also for their depth of character and psychological insight. His ability to evoke fear through his vivid depictions of terror led to his novels 'Offspring' and 'Red' being adapted into films, bringing his chilling narratives to an even wider audience. His contributions to the horror genre were recognized with four Bram Stoker Awards and three further nominations, epitomizing his mastery in crafting stories that both terrify and intrigue.

In 2011, Ketchum was honored with the World Horror Convention Grand Master Award, a testament to his outstanding contribution to the horror genre. His legacy as a grandmaster of horror continues to influence and inspire both readers and writers in the genre. Ketchum's storytelling was not just about scaring his audience; it was about exploring the dark, often hidden aspects of human nature and society.