In NW by Zadie Smith, the intertwined lives of Leah Hanwell and Natalie Blake, childhood friends from northwest London, unfold as they grapple with issues of social class, race, gender, education, career aspirations, and family life. Their narratives are accompanied by Felix Cooper's story, focusing on his struggle to overcome addiction, all set against the complex and diverse backdrop of London. The novel employs innovative storytelling techniques, including shifts in perspective and experimental elements, to explore themes of self-identity and modern urban existence. Topics such as addiction, mental health struggles, and casual sex appear in the narrative.

Zadie Smith’s NW is lauded for its inventive narrative structure and vivid depiction of London’s diverse neighborhoods. Critics praise its complex characters and social commentary. However, some find the fragmented storytelling and abrupt shifts in perspective challenging. Overall, NW is acclaimed for its ambitious and insightful portrayal of modern urban life.

A reader who would enjoy NW by Zadie Smith appreciates contemporary, urban narratives that explore issues of identity, class, and cultural diversity. Fans of White Teeth by Smith herself or Brick Lane by Monica Ali will find similar themes and rich, character-driven stories that are both thought-provoking and engaging.

Gritty / Mysterious / Melancholic / Contemplative / Adventurous

- NW by Zadie Smith was shortlisted for the 2013 Women's Prize for Fiction, highlighting its critical acclaim and recognition in literary circles.
- In NW, Zadie Smith uses a modernist narrative technique, incorporating stream-of-consciousness and multiple viewpoints to explore the complexities of urban life.
- Zadie Smith, known for her rich character development, reflects on identity and social class in NW, drawing inspiration from her own experiences growing up in the multicultural neighborhood of northwest London.

**Leah Hanwell**  
Leah is a woman with a steady job supporting charities, living with her husband Michel in northwest London. Despite her seemingly stable life, she faces internal struggles and is a foil to her ambitious friend, Natalie.

**Keisha Blake/Natalie De Angelis**  
Natalie, originally Keisha, is an intelligent and driven woman who becomes a successful barrister. Her journey involves significant personal transformation and a continual search for purpose amidst professional and personal challenges.

**Michel**  
Michel is Leah's husband, motivated by desires for economic and social success and to start a family. His ambitions create tension with Leah, and his priorities shift during a critical moment in the story.

**Frank De Angelis**  
Frank, Natalie's husband, is an investment banker with a multicultural background. While he achieves professional success, his relationship with Natalie faces difficulties as she grapples with her own existential questions.

**Felix Cooper**  
Felix is a character with a challenging past who seeks to improve his life, motivated by his girlfriend Grace. His narrative intersects indirectly with the main characters and highlights the complex realities of life in northwest London.

Zadie Smith

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Novel

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NW Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Visitation”

Part 1, Pages 3-63

NW Part 1, Pages 3-63 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Pages 64-109

NW Part 1, Pages 64-109 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Pages 114-154

NW Part 2, Pages 114-154 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Guest”

Part 2, Pages 155-198

NW Part 2, Pages 155-198 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Pages 201-235

NW Part 3, Pages 201-235 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Host”

Part 3, Pages 235-292

NW Part 3, Pages 235-292 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Pages 292-355

NW Part 3, Pages 292-355 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Crossing”

Part 4 NW Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 NW Part 5 Summary & Analysis

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