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Mike Raven, 42, overcomes the odds and reaches number one on Amazon with his compilation of funny and surreal short stories.

Traditional wisdom in literature is pretty clear.

Short stories aren't wanted. Books by new authors without a big social media presence don't sell. And humour books don't sell.

Despite this, Mike's first published book, "Norman the Insurance Salesman and Other Stories", has reached number 1 on Amazon's chart for the Top 100 Free Comedy Books on the Kindle Store.

Mike's book, "Norman the Insurance Salesman and Other Stories", featured at #1

The blend of zany and surreal humour, inspired by creations such as the Goon Show, Monty Python, Inside No 9, the Mighty Boosh, Blackadder, and Bottom, seems to be resonating with people, with one review saying "An excellent, quirky, funny read. Filled with humorous characters that make you smile with every page. Fun and lighthearted".

While the mature and darker content may not be for everyone, there does seem to be some appetite for something different in the literary world.

"I didn't expect this," Mike said, "but I'm over the moon. I really hope that I'm putting a smile on peoples faces. And as a result I'm now hard at work thinking up stories for my next book!"

Those interested can find out more at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Norman-Insurance-Salesman-Other-Stories-ebook/dp/B0F287NZTR or at Mike's website at https://thog.uk

Norman the Insurance Salesman makes number one