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20 Years of Internet Humor and Global Inspiration: Highlights From 'Volume One

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USA News April 25, 2025
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20 Years of Internet Humor and Global Inspiration: Highlights From 'Volume One
Nationwide (USANews.com) In December 2024, 20 Years Of Internet Humor … And Other Interesting Things was published, marking a notable milestone for a unique project that has captivated a global audience for more than three decades. The publication compiles the humor, insights, and inspirational messages that have been shared via email since the 1990s. The book serves as a reflection on the evolution of internet communication and the power of humor in connecting people across the world. The origins of this project trace back to the early days of email communication, when the internet was still a relatively new tool for business and personal interaction. During the 1990s, Bill Williams, a manager overseeing a sales team across the Midwest, faced challenges in ensuring consistent communication with employees who rarely checked their email. In response, he began sending out daily emails with content that was both humorous and motivational, hoping to capture the attention of the sales team. To their surprise, the emails not only increased the team's engagement with email but also began to circulate beyond the workplace. As the humorous messages gained popularity, clients started requesting them as well. Over time, the distribution grew exponentially, reaching new audiences across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. While the creator of this email initiative remained private throughout the years, the widespread distribution of these messages had a measurable impact. The emails became a beloved part of the daily routine for many, offering moments of levity and reflection to readers from diverse backgrounds. Despite the growing popularity, the project was never monetized, and the emails were sent out purely for enjoyment and connection. In December 2024, Williams decided to compile a selection of the best and most enduring messages into a series of books titled 20 Years Of Internet Humor … And Other Interesting Things. This first book offers a glimpse into the evolution of internet culture, showcasing humor that has resonated with readers over the decades. The book includes a variety of messages, from witty observations to thought-provoking quotes, offering both nostalgia for long-time followers and fresh material for new readers. This book is intended as a way to preserve and share the positive impact these emails have had on their readers. It serves as a testament to the power of humor to bring people together, even in the earliest days of email communication. The publication also offers a unique window into the cultural shifts that have shaped the way we communicate and connect with one another in the digital age. What Readers Say About Us The success of 20 Years of Internet Humor has been met with positive feedback from readers across the world. Here’s what some have shared about their experience: 20 Years of Internet Humor: Volume One (And Other Interesting Things) by W.G. Williams is a delightful, nostalgic, and endlessly entertaining collection born from a simple yet ingenious idea. What started as a daily 'Thought for the Day' email to keep in touch with his staff blossomed into a decades-long journey of humor, wit, and profound observations on life. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or keeping on the coffee table for an instant mood boost, 20 Years of Internet Humor is a must-read for fans of lighthearted wisdom and witty storytelling. Williams proves that laughter really is timeless, and this book is a wonderful reminder of the joy found in the everyday.” – The L.A. Times “I couldn’t stop turning the pages. I wanted to see what the next one was going to be… It’s a GREAT collection!” – Jack Canfield, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul For those interested in exploring this collection of timeless emails, 20 Years Of Internet Humor … And Other Interesting Things is now available for purchase from Amazon and most book retailers. The publication serves as a reflection on how a simple idea, begun in the Midwest, evolved into a global phenomenon, touching the lives of countless individuals over the years. To learn more about the book, visit www.internet-humor.com .
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