M.R. James, or Montague Rhodes James, was an English author and medieval scholar born in 1862. He is best known for his ghost stories, which often feature scholarly protagonists and are set in historical contexts. His writing style combines a sense of realism with supernatural elements, making his tales both engaging and eerie. James served as a provost at King's College, Cambridge and was a prominent figure in the study of medieval manuscripts. His works, including "Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad," have influenced the horror genre and continue to be celebrated for their atmospheric storytelling and subtle terror.