Joe Nuthin’s Guide to Life

Joe Nathan is a neurodivergent young man who works at The Compass Store. He lives with his mum and navigates life using the blue and yellow books of advice, which she’s compiled for him. Joe is kind and thrives on rules and routines. He loves the programme FRIENDS, goes to the pub with his mum every Friday night, makes jigsaws in the workshop his father built and likes to visit cemeteries to read the inscriptions on headstones.

The novel emphasises the importance of his friendships but there is one character – Mean Charlie, who Joe is determined to become friends with, despite the fact that Charlie bullies him. The way in which Joe Nathan greets challenges and unkindness in his own unique way serves to shine a light on our own behaviours and assumptions.

The story explores themes of love and friendship, self-discovery and acceptance, community and the power of humour connection. Like all my novels, it’s full of humour, heartbreak and hope.

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‘Extraordinary. Melted my heart’ Heidi Swain, author of The Book-Lovers' Retreat

‘A gorgeous, big-hearted story about friendship, resilience and learning to value others for who they really are’ Caroline Day, author of Hope Nicely's Lessons for Life

‘Prepare to have your cockles warmed by this adorable book about 23-year-old Joe, who unexpectedly finds himself out of his comfort zone... His unique, charming voice makes this a joy to read’ Good Housekeeping

‘You can do anything with a little help from friends’ Take A Break

‘Fisher writes with a clarity that makes the empathy, compassion and humour of this novel unputdownable’ My Weekly

‘The perfect wholesome read to snuggle up with a cup of tea and a plate of biscuits – you'll feel warm right through’ Chat

‘A moving tale of a life led differently which, while full of gentle understanding, doesn't shy away from tragedy and violence' Daily Mail

‘Poignant and thoughtfully written... This is a book full of love and compassion – for the things that make us different and the things that make us the same' Culturefly

‘Fisher portrays Joe with tenderness and grace, highlighting his genuine challenges, frustrations, and sparks of joy… an utter delight' Booklist

‘Joe-Nathan, a young, neurodivergent man who lives with his mother, is good at his grocery-store job and is nice to everyone, even Mean Charlie... Fisher portrays Joe-Nathan with dignity and intelligence, and conveys the importance of committing to a life filled with kindness' Washington Post

‘This story of love, friendship and humanity heals the heart, even as it entertains' People’s Friend