Let's make this birthday one to remember.

85 years old (Born on December 11, 1939)

Happy Birthday, Thomas Francis McGuane III! Another year wiser and still bushwhacking pianos better than anyone else. From "The Sporting Club" to the unforgettable adventures of "Ninety-Two in the Shade," your stories have kept us laughing, pondering, and occasionally scratching our heads—but always coming back for more.

Your literary journey has been nothing short of legendary—novels nominated for prestigious awards like the National Book Award don't come around every day. Here's hoping this birthday finds you surrounded by good friends, great fishing spots, and plenty of inspiration for another round of brilliant storytelling. Cheers to many more chapters ahead!