52 New things: the least famous Nick Thorpe in the world and his journey to conquer the boredom of modern life

by Nick J. Thorpe

When was the last time you tried something truly new? The modern world is full of possibilities, adventures and excitement but also routines. The daily grind can make us forget about the former as we embrace the monotony of the latter. It can be hard to extract ourselves from the comforting embrace of our favourite TV programme, food or jumper.

For one man, the boredom of this very modern life became too much to bear. And so he challenged himself to do something about it. Starting small, his project soon grew into one life-changing year.

52 New Things is the story of one man who decided to put down the Monster Munch, switch off the TV and do something different. He travelled, he danced, he flew, he drove across continents, but most significantly, he started saying yes to the hilarious and bewildering experiences that life has to offer. And he has the Christmas single, the tattoo and lack of body hair to prove it.

52 New Things is a book that is hard to define. Travelogue meets unconventional self-help book meets personal journey for ensuing hilarity. Nick J. Thorpe's journey to make his life more interesting has hilarious, surprising and often life-affirming consequences. He explores the dizzy array of opportunities that modern life offers with a guiding hand that is both motivational and hilarious.

This is a frank, funny, full frontal account of a year's worth of new experiences. It might just inspire you to try some new things your own.

Genres: Self Help

243 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 2014

Reviews

[Celine Jeanjean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit I was sold on the concept of this book alone. Trying 52 new things in a year? Now that’s a challenge after my own heart! And Nick Thorpe doesn’t disappoint, taking us through the full gamut of new things to try.

From the humble beginning of giving up crisps, we follow Nick as he (amongst many other things) walks an alpaca, calls his granddad, tries hover crafting, brews his own beer, and gets a wax. The latter would be my favourite chapter (I laughed out loud), if it weren’t for the frankly awe-inspiring road trip from Britain to Mongolia in a black cab.

The whole book is funny as hell, and it makes some very good points about how mindless and pre-programmed modern life can be. I’d challenge anyone to read this book and not walk away with a smile on their face and a burning desire to try something new.

All in all this is a cracking read and I can’t wait for Nick’s next book!

[Gina Gallo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Less of a book and more of a journal through one man’s adventure. By trying 52 new things, he learned more about himself and his friends and family. He tried all kinds of things-some I was interested in, some less so (shaving—ugh). However, the important thing is that he finished and never gave up. It was an inspiring read.

[Joebacca · Rating 3 out of 5]

adjust accordingly to life. this guy appears to have the freedom to do whatever he fancies whenever he fancies. not taking anything away from the concept cause i do agree with it overall

[Sam Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very funny read and whilst i already have a similar 'yes' philosophy on life it was a useful reminder that there is a world of infinity out there to keep exploring. I would have like to have seen a bit more analysis in the early chapters of why certain new 'things' were taken on, what the author learned and took away from each task and whether it would become a permanent change to his life or a passing challenge. The book really evolved from about a third of the way through and became rather more introspective and i found myself turning the pages quicker to see what would be up next and what the overall conclusion would be. Very interesting read whether you live in London or anywhere else in the world. Recommended.

[Courtney Terrey]

Charming and inspiring, this book warmed my heart with beautifully and humorously crafted tales that reminds you there is a whole wide world out there to explore. The author takes your hand and leads you on a journey that inspires you to embrace the world around you, starting in your own backyard. Genuine and moving, this will leave you giggling along with his adventures, or sometimes more amusingly misadventures.

[Cherylreddin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the concept and was inspired to try new things however big or small! It's easy to make connections to the book as Nick describes real life conundrums along the way. Teaches you that little changes in your life can mean big things.
Go try today!

[Lloyd Glater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting, funny and inspiring. An entertaining book.