Publishers have always preferred authors with a “platform” — a group of people who already know about and will buy things they write. That’s why celebrities keep getting million-dollar advances to write advice books on topics where they have no expertise.

One way to cash in on this fact is to create a platform using social media, then come to the negotiating table with a list of customers. For today’s Friday fun, I’ll point you to the web pages that started successful authors on their way.

Keep in mind that humor seems to be one of the best ways to “go viral” with social media. These sites are funny, which means some people might find them offensive. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Shit My Dad Says started as a Twitter feed of funny statements by Justin Halpern’s cantankerous dad. It turned into a major book deal and a TV show starring William Freakin’ Shatner.

Things My Girlfriend and I Have Argued About is an example of truth in advertising. Author Mill Millington’s reports from the domestic front. Three books later, the relationship — and the laughs — are still going strong.

27b/6 is the work of David Thorne, a designer who started publishing his more frustrating email exchanges. He makes these exchanges extra frustrating by venting his impressive hostility on the poor saps who inconvenience him. He apparently has a book deal now.

Tucker Max is not for the faint of heart, or the good of sense. The two books from his website (so far) are I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell  and Assholes Finish First. If you like drunkenness, womanizing and general bad behavior, you’ll find it funny. If you don’t, avoid clicking on the link.

How about y’all? Anybody have some similar sites to add to the list?