How to Leave the House: A Novel BY Nathan Newman

On his last day before leaving for university, Natwest is fixated on one pressing issue: a deeply embarrassing package that hasn’t yet arrived. He’s determined not to leave town without it, despite the mounting absurdities and complications that arise. What follows is a whirlwind twenty-four-hour adventure that brings Natwest into contact with a colorful cast of characters, each with their own quirks and crises.

As Natwest embarks on his quest, the narrative weaves through the lives of several other residents in his small town. There’s a middle-aged dentist who dreams of becoming a renowned artist but can only paint mouths, a tortured imam entangled in a fraught relationship with the local vicar, and an elderly woman mourning the loss of her enigmatic husband. The story also touches on a troubled teenager whose private photos have been leaked online, and Natwest’s ex-boyfriend, who harbors life-altering secrets about Natwest’s past.

Alternating between Natwest’s idiosyncratic perspective and those of the other characters, this novel offers a vibrant and imaginative exploration of interconnected lives. It’s a tale of love, friendship, and the myriad lies we tell ourselves. With its blend of outrageous humor and heartfelt moments, the book examines whether life’s outcomes are ever truly as simple as happy or unhappy endings. The Financial Times praises it as “a wild and funny ride through modern life,” capturing its unique energy and originality.