"One Third Off" by Irvin S. Cobb is a humorous work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The book presents a lighthearted exploration of dieting and self-improvement, touching on the experiences of the author as he attempts to shed excess weight while sharing humorous anecdotes and societal observations. Cobb writes in a relatable manner, combining wit and charm that reflects the cultural attitudes of his time. In this engaging narrative, Cobb recounts his journey from a once-slim youth to a man who finds himself grappling with weight gain and the challenges that come with it. The story delves into his reflections on societal expectations regarding body image and the often humorous excuses people create to justify their lifestyle choices. Through various episodes and misadventures, he shares both the struggles and small victories of his weight loss journey, culminating in a light-hearted critique of fad diets and a self-deprecating acknowledgment of the human condition. Overall, "One Third Off" is a candid and entertaining look at personal transformation, wrapped in Cobb's signature humor. (This is an automatically generated summary.)