Joe Nuthin's Guide to Life

This is a heart-warming story of one man trying to make sense of the world around him.

Joe-Nathan lives a simple life with his mum Janet. He works at the local Compass Store, which he loves, as everything has a place and is clearly ordered. His mum packs his lunch everyday, they go to the pub every Friday night and order a takeaway on a Saturday evening.

In order to prepare Joe for an independent life, Janet writes down a set of guidelines in a pale-blue notebook. The book, divided into sections based on the different rooms in the house, covers everything from how the clean the furniture to recipes. As Joe learns how to become independent, he also discovers what it means to step out of his comfort zone and develop meaningful relationships.

I just adored Joe-Nathan and his mum Janet. A woman who has dedicated her life to her son, even though she craves a life of travel and freedom. This book has a host of loveable characters and a few villains as well for good measure. It champions those who may feel like an outcast or who approach life in a different way. Joe is clearly the hero of this story, and I couldn't put this book down wanting to find out what Joe would do next.

Helen Fisher's tackles the issues in the story sensitivity, adding humour and endearment. I felt drawn into the story and that Fisher's heart and soul were pouring from the pages. It's such a brilliant book to lose yourself in. If you love books like Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and Saving Missy, then this is a must-read.

I highly recommend this beautifully written book that will tug on your heartstrings, make you laugh, and cry simultaneously and have you thinking about the characters in the book long after you have turned the final page.