2025 Introducing Life Seemed Good, But.... A collection of dark, surreal, and funny short stories. Prepare to embark on a strange journey through the realm of absurdity, where laughter knows no bounds and reality takes a backseat. Life Seemed Good, But.... is a captivating anthology featuring a series of short stories that will tickle your funny-bone and ignite your imagination. Within the pages of this book, you will encounter a host of unforgettable characters, from talking animals with peculiar habits to eccentric individuals who do their best just to survive. Immerse yourself in a world where reality is optional, where everyday objects come to life and engage in mischievous antics, and where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. Whether you're in need of a good chuckle, a break from reality, or a dose of pure whimsy, Life Seemed Good, But.... is the perfect companion. The author's clever wit and mastery of the surreal will leave you laughing and pondering the beautiful, sometimes dark absurdity of life. There is a lot of hidden trivia and interconnections not visible at first. They should be read in order, a few at a time so the lessons can sink in. Some of the stories came from Bell's magazine column entitled Modern Fables previously published in Wassup Local Magazine (Lake County, IL). He began writing as therapy in 2004 when he was laid off from his job shortly after his wife got leukemia. This book is dedicated to all those who supported someone suffering with cancer or any serious illness with the premise that laughter is good medicine.