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The Next Big Thing
Part young-love rom-com, part David and Goliath story, The Next Big Thing is a heartwarming, hilarious, quintessentially Australian debut.
NORM has lived in Norman his whole life. It's where he grew up with his dad, where he went to school and met his best friend Ella. But the town is dying: the river has dried up, and with it all the jobs.
One night at the pub, on the anniversary of his dad's death, Norm announces a plan. He's going to build a Big Thing – like Coffs Harbour's Big Banana or Ballina's Big Prawn – to drive tourism to the town and give it a future. And to show Ella that she could have a future here too, maybe even with him.
ELLA, meanwhile, plans to leave Norman for the big smoke. She's tired of being a big fish in a small pond, especially when that pond is running out of water.
Ella encourages Norm's big idea nonetheless. If it works, Norm will have a four-metre-high reminder of her. And if not, at least they'll have one last perfect summer together.
Will Norm from Norman build a Big Thing in time to save his town, and to convince the girl of his dreams she belongs here too – or is it too late?
NORM has lived in Norman his whole life. It's where he grew up with his dad, where he went to school and met his best friend Ella. But the town is dying: the river has dried up, and with it all the jobs.
One night at the pub, on the anniversary of his dad's death, Norm announces a plan. He's going to build a Big Thing – like Coffs Harbour's Big Banana or Ballina's Big Prawn – to drive tourism to the town and give it a future. And to show Ella that she could have a future here too, maybe even with him.
ELLA, meanwhile, plans to leave Norman for the big smoke. She's tired of being a big fish in a small pond, especially when that pond is running out of water.
Ella encourages Norm's big idea nonetheless. If it works, Norm will have a four-metre-high reminder of her. And if not, at least they'll have one last perfect summer together.
Will Norm from Norman build a Big Thing in time to save his town, and to convince the girl of his dreams she belongs here too – or is it too late?
307 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2024
22 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 8, 2024
Yet, here in her hands were a thousand tiny declarations.
I can honestly say I have not read anything this unique before. James ColleyAustralian comedian and television writer has shown his comedic side in this small town, big heart story.
The underlying message is the one that speaks to me the most, the unspoken frisson between two young people wanting to leave the town that made them who they were, but still feeling attached to this town in some way.
Norm from Norman knows this town is dying, as does all its inhabitants, and he is the one that is trying to rectify it. What better way than to try and thing of the ‘next biggest thing.’ Think the big prawn and the big banana, and what those towns of Ballina and Coffs Harbour. This is what Norm wants for Norman.
Norman boasts the usual hot spots, the local Chinese, the pub, and the little café, but it will die if nothing happens fast.
This was the town of Norman, the little town that could.
Ella and Norm steal the show here, and I think you will be stolen by it if you like stories about small struggling towns, hard luck stories and reading about the underdog, oh, and throw in a corrupt pollie or two. Thanks always @bettterreadingau and @panterrapress for my arc to read and review.
My takeaway? Kindness and banding together.
I can honestly say I have not read anything this unique before. James ColleyAustralian comedian and television writer has shown his comedic side in this small town, big heart story.
The underlying message is the one that speaks to me the most, the unspoken frisson between two young people wanting to leave the town that made them who they were, but still feeling attached to this town in some way.
Norm from Norman knows this town is dying, as does all its inhabitants, and he is the one that is trying to rectify it. What better way than to try and thing of the ‘next biggest thing.’ Think the big prawn and the big banana, and what those towns of Ballina and Coffs Harbour. This is what Norm wants for Norman.
Norman boasts the usual hot spots, the local Chinese, the pub, and the little café, but it will die if nothing happens fast.
This was the town of Norman, the little town that could.
Ella and Norm steal the show here, and I think you will be stolen by it if you like stories about small struggling towns, hard luck stories and reading about the underdog, oh, and throw in a corrupt pollie or two. Thanks always @bettterreadingau and @panterrapress for my arc to read and review.
My takeaway? Kindness and banding together.
May 19, 2024
It’s a nice, heartwarming, boring story.
I read this book for one reason alone: the big merino is on the cover. I was obsessed with the big merino and the big banana as a kid, so I was excited for this. The cover is bright, one of the nicest I’ve seen, it’s obviously about Australia’s “Big Things” and although learning a lot about the history of them was fun, it really was a catfish of sorts.
For some reason I thought this book was about 2 friends taking a road trip to see all the Big Things in Australia, I saw another reviewer say the same. Unfortunately not, they actually only see one during the entire story. It’s more a story about community, rural Australia and friendship. Which don’t get me wrong, is LOVELY, but also.. not very exciting.
It’s definitely light, fun, nice, heartwarming. But it’s also boring, doesn’t really do much and doesn’t really teach you anything. Dare I say it’s a little cliché? I didn’t really connect with any of the characters or care for any of their stories, and sometimes it was a little confusing to keep up with who we were talking about, given the story spotlights multiple people and alters between flashbacks and present day occasionally.
Granted, I was easily able to picture the fictional town of Norman, and frantically googled trying to find out where it was hoping to visit one day, before I figured out it isn’t a real town. I liked that even though it was an Australian story, it wasn’t overly Australian. I find some Aussie authors fall into the trap of just including Australian stereotypes, brands and cliché’s, to really sell the “Aussie” storyline. This book didn’t do that and I appreciated that.
Even though it wasn’t all that interesting, I’m still giving 3 stars because it’s a nice book with a fun trajectory, even if it isn’t that exciting, but I wouldn’t know who I would recommend this book to, if anyone.
I read this book for one reason alone: the big merino is on the cover. I was obsessed with the big merino and the big banana as a kid, so I was excited for this. The cover is bright, one of the nicest I’ve seen, it’s obviously about Australia’s “Big Things” and although learning a lot about the history of them was fun, it really was a catfish of sorts.
For some reason I thought this book was about 2 friends taking a road trip to see all the Big Things in Australia, I saw another reviewer say the same. Unfortunately not, they actually only see one during the entire story. It’s more a story about community, rural Australia and friendship. Which don’t get me wrong, is LOVELY, but also.. not very exciting.
It’s definitely light, fun, nice, heartwarming. But it’s also boring, doesn’t really do much and doesn’t really teach you anything. Dare I say it’s a little cliché? I didn’t really connect with any of the characters or care for any of their stories, and sometimes it was a little confusing to keep up with who we were talking about, given the story spotlights multiple people and alters between flashbacks and present day occasionally.
Granted, I was easily able to picture the fictional town of Norman, and frantically googled trying to find out where it was hoping to visit one day, before I figured out it isn’t a real town. I liked that even though it was an Australian story, it wasn’t overly Australian. I find some Aussie authors fall into the trap of just including Australian stereotypes, brands and cliché’s, to really sell the “Aussie” storyline. This book didn’t do that and I appreciated that.
Even though it wasn’t all that interesting, I’m still giving 3 stars because it’s a nice book with a fun trajectory, even if it isn’t that exciting, but I wouldn’t know who I would recommend this book to, if anyone.
February 9, 2024
https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
🍌Comedy writer and producer James Colley proudly presents his debut novel, The Next Big Thing. A love letter to all the wonderful regional towns in our country, The Next Big Thing is a story of connections, a place to call home, salvation, resilience, triumph, adversity, determination, effort, hopes and dreams. A contemporary fiction title with a touch of romance and comedy, James Colley’s debut was a one of a kind style read.
🐏A visit to our regional hubs of Australia isn’t complete without a glimpse at an ‘big thing’ icon. I’ve been lucky to visit a few West Australian sites such as the big ram, big apple and the big orange. My own home town even features a big ruler! So it’s safe to say I was pretty keen on the concept base of this book. I was also interested to see how James Colley would hold up as a writer of adult contemporary fiction as he has quite a solid background in comedy writing.
🍍The Next Big Thing was a fairly charming read overall. The lead characters were sweet and unassuming. I was completely behind both Norm and his love interest/best mate Ella in their quest. There are plenty of eclectic characters who offer some alternative moments in this funny tale. The setting was carefully crafted and I enjoyed the struggling small-town vibe. There are times when you feel the sheer weight of Norm’s plan and the sad demise of his home town, which has obviously impacted his father, along with many members of the community. The narrative is a kind of a build up style novel to the final reveal of Norman’s next big thing. I’m not sure if the final unveiling lived up to the hype, but it was quite surprising all the same. I did greatly appreciate the little ‘big thing’ anecdotes/history points that preceded a number of chapters in James Colley’s debut, they added an extra flourish to this tale!
🍌Comedy writer and producer James Colley proudly presents his debut novel, The Next Big Thing. A love letter to all the wonderful regional towns in our country, The Next Big Thing is a story of connections, a place to call home, salvation, resilience, triumph, adversity, determination, effort, hopes and dreams. A contemporary fiction title with a touch of romance and comedy, James Colley’s debut was a one of a kind style read.
🐏A visit to our regional hubs of Australia isn’t complete without a glimpse at an ‘big thing’ icon. I’ve been lucky to visit a few West Australian sites such as the big ram, big apple and the big orange. My own home town even features a big ruler! So it’s safe to say I was pretty keen on the concept base of this book. I was also interested to see how James Colley would hold up as a writer of adult contemporary fiction as he has quite a solid background in comedy writing.
🍍The Next Big Thing was a fairly charming read overall. The lead characters were sweet and unassuming. I was completely behind both Norm and his love interest/best mate Ella in their quest. There are plenty of eclectic characters who offer some alternative moments in this funny tale. The setting was carefully crafted and I enjoyed the struggling small-town vibe. There are times when you feel the sheer weight of Norm’s plan and the sad demise of his home town, which has obviously impacted his father, along with many members of the community. The narrative is a kind of a build up style novel to the final reveal of Norman’s next big thing. I’m not sure if the final unveiling lived up to the hype, but it was quite surprising all the same. I did greatly appreciate the little ‘big thing’ anecdotes/history points that preceded a number of chapters in James Colley’s debut, they added an extra flourish to this tale!
May 19, 2024
3.5 stars
Aussie ‘big things’ are supercool. I get a real kick out of stumbling upon one of Australia’s many ‘big things’ when travelling around Australia. They’re impressive and fun to look at and cheesy photos taken in front of them is a must 😂
This is an entertaining story about breathing new life into a dying town with the next ‘BIG THING.’
Listening to this book gave me ‘The Castle’ vibes. Heartfelt, funny, authentic.
Listened to the audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Read by Miranda Tapsell
Duration: 7 hrs, 56 min. 1.25x Speed
Aussie ‘big things’ are supercool. I get a real kick out of stumbling upon one of Australia’s many ‘big things’ when travelling around Australia. They’re impressive and fun to look at and cheesy photos taken in front of them is a must 😂
This is an entertaining story about breathing new life into a dying town with the next ‘BIG THING.’
Listening to this book gave me ‘The Castle’ vibes. Heartfelt, funny, authentic.
Listened to the audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Read by Miranda Tapsell
Duration: 7 hrs, 56 min. 1.25x Speed
March 24, 2024
If you're an Australian, chances are you've seen a Big Thing at least once in your life. Whether it's the Big Merino on the way to Canberra or the Big Banana on the way to Queensland, chances are you've come across one.
It is with these icons in mind that Norm from Norman comes up with a plan. The water has all dried up along with the jobs, people are starting to leave, and Norm believes that the only thing that can save the town is building the next Big Thing. So that's what he and his best friend Ella decide to do.
For Norm, he hopes to bring life back to the town where his dad raised him and maybe even convince Ella that it's worth sticking around.
For Ella, it's a chance to leave Norm with a reminder of her when she leaves at the end of the summer to go to university.
-
I did quite enjoy this one - there's always something fun about an underdog with big dreams, particularly when they have a heartwarming cause. Small town dynamics are also always great to read, with quite a bunch of quirky characters living in Norman - I'm particularly fond of Jasper, Mick & Sandy!
My heart went out to Ella in this one - it must be so hard to watch the town you grew up in slowly decay and feel like the future you want means having to give up the place (and the people) you love. And poor Norm, feeling like he is having more and more taken from him was hard to watch, yet it was beautiful to see him realise just how much he had in the end. You also have to commend the slightly-awkward determination to get the job done.
If you like a good Australian fiction book filled with hope, fun characters and Big Things, this one might be for you. To find out what exactly The Next Big Thing was, you'll have to read the book 😉
Edit: after some reflection, I think I'll go 3.5 ⭐️
It is with these icons in mind that Norm from Norman comes up with a plan. The water has all dried up along with the jobs, people are starting to leave, and Norm believes that the only thing that can save the town is building the next Big Thing. So that's what he and his best friend Ella decide to do.
For Norm, he hopes to bring life back to the town where his dad raised him and maybe even convince Ella that it's worth sticking around.
For Ella, it's a chance to leave Norm with a reminder of her when she leaves at the end of the summer to go to university.
-
I did quite enjoy this one - there's always something fun about an underdog with big dreams, particularly when they have a heartwarming cause. Small town dynamics are also always great to read, with quite a bunch of quirky characters living in Norman - I'm particularly fond of Jasper, Mick & Sandy!
My heart went out to Ella in this one - it must be so hard to watch the town you grew up in slowly decay and feel like the future you want means having to give up the place (and the people) you love. And poor Norm, feeling like he is having more and more taken from him was hard to watch, yet it was beautiful to see him realise just how much he had in the end. You also have to commend the slightly-awkward determination to get the job done.
If you like a good Australian fiction book filled with hope, fun characters and Big Things, this one might be for you. To find out what exactly The Next Big Thing was, you'll have to read the book 😉
Edit: after some reflection, I think I'll go 3.5 ⭐️
March 29, 2025
this was silly and stupid and a love letter to tiny rural aussie towns
it makes me nostalgic from my own town that I have since moved away from
it makes me nostalgic from my own town that I have since moved away from
March 12, 2024
I was kind of hoping for a bit more from this one... It was a big daggy and a bit dull, but a quick and inoffensive read all the same
March 19, 2024
Oh my heart! This book took me completely by surprise- for some reason I thought it was a story about a road trip to see all the big attractions - but it’s not 🤣 so there’s a lesson in actually reading the synopsis!
.
This is a quintessential Aussie small town tale, but it’s not corny or cringeworthy- it’s well done! The characters are all loveable and have a surprising depth. For a romcom, there were some wholesome and relatable themes and the unlikeliest of heroes. And it sure was funny!
.
I sure hope this becomes a film- it would be so popular and the screen adaptation would be 👌👌 A fantastic debut novel ⭐️
.
This is a quintessential Aussie small town tale, but it’s not corny or cringeworthy- it’s well done! The characters are all loveable and have a surprising depth. For a romcom, there were some wholesome and relatable themes and the unlikeliest of heroes. And it sure was funny!
.
I sure hope this becomes a film- it would be so popular and the screen adaptation would be 👌👌 A fantastic debut novel ⭐️
April 23, 2024
This was so fun! The best way I can describe it is if the town in The Dry got invaded by the characters of The Castle, and then redirected as a romcom.
As someone who recently went on a Big Thing roadtrip, this spoke to me even more. Norman is on the list!
As someone who recently went on a Big Thing roadtrip, this spoke to me even more. Norman is on the list!
May 28, 2024
Helped pull me out of a reading gap, lovely story and characters.
December 13, 2023
Konu: Norman kasabasında yaşayan Ella ve Norman artık haritadan silinmek üzere olan kasabalarını kurtarmak için planlar yapmaya başlarlar. Ancak Ella, Norman’a söylemeye her ne kadar çekinse de yakında kasabadan ayrılacaktır.
Özet: Norman ve Ella iki yakın arkadaş olarak gizliden gizliye birbirlerini sevmektedirler. Annesinin terk ettiği bir çocuk olarak Norman babasını da kaybetmiştir ama bir noktada hep çıkıp geleceğini düşünerek Norman kasabasını terk etmekten korkar. Ella ise bu kasabadan daha büyük hayaller kurarak üniversiteyi kazanır ancak kasabayı terk edeceğini bir türlü Norman’a söyleyemez. İkisi birlikte kasabayı kurtarmak için planlar yapmaya çalışırken Ella’nın gitmesi gereken o zaman gelir ve kasabadan ayrılır. Norman onun ardından perişan olsa da aradan geçen vakitte kasabalarının artık düzelmeyeceğini ikisi de kabullenmişlerdir.
Eksileri:
• Kitabın başlangıcı çok sıkıcı. Kurgu çok yavaş ilerliyor, olay örgüsü bana kalırsa akıcı değil. Hatta takip etmemizi kolaylaştıracak ilgi çekici bir olay örgüsü de yok.
• Okurken çok zorlandım, günlerdir de bitirmek için çaba sarf ediyorum ve dönüp baktığımda hiç ilgimi çeken bir kitap olmadı.
• Bol betimlemeli olduğu için okumayı zorlaştırıyor.
Özet: Norman ve Ella iki yakın arkadaş olarak gizliden gizliye birbirlerini sevmektedirler. Annesinin terk ettiği bir çocuk olarak Norman babasını da kaybetmiştir ama bir noktada hep çıkıp geleceğini düşünerek Norman kasabasını terk etmekten korkar. Ella ise bu kasabadan daha büyük hayaller kurarak üniversiteyi kazanır ancak kasabayı terk edeceğini bir türlü Norman’a söyleyemez. İkisi birlikte kasabayı kurtarmak için planlar yapmaya çalışırken Ella’nın gitmesi gereken o zaman gelir ve kasabadan ayrılır. Norman onun ardından perişan olsa da aradan geçen vakitte kasabalarının artık düzelmeyeceğini ikisi de kabullenmişlerdir.
Eksileri:
• Kitabın başlangıcı çok sıkıcı. Kurgu çok yavaş ilerliyor, olay örgüsü bana kalırsa akıcı değil. Hatta takip etmemizi kolaylaştıracak ilgi çekici bir olay örgüsü de yok.
• Okurken çok zorlandım, günlerdir de bitirmek için çaba sarf ediyorum ve dönüp baktığımda hiç ilgimi çeken bir kitap olmadı.
• Bol betimlemeli olduğu için okumayı zorlaştırıyor.
August 19, 2024
Ella & Norm have been best mates for their whole lives, growing up in the country town of Norman, but as the town slowly dwindles (and as Ella starts to imagine a world beyond the town limits), Norm has to come up with an idea to breathe new life into Norman & new hope for his bestie.
This is a fun story, but it draws heavily on all of the tropes you have for a rural Australiana tale. The young couple who don't yet know they are in love, the range of larakin locals including the one whose duplicitous nature threatens the town, and of course ocker australian background.
The central premise was novel, but the rest of these tropes were well worn. Not unlike a murder mystery, it's OK if you enjoy going along for the ride, but if you wanted to read something truly novel, this is maybe not the book for you.
This is a fun story, but it draws heavily on all of the tropes you have for a rural Australiana tale. The young couple who don't yet know they are in love, the range of larakin locals including the one whose duplicitous nature threatens the town, and of course ocker australian background.
The central premise was novel, but the rest of these tropes were well worn. Not unlike a murder mystery, it's OK if you enjoy going along for the ride, but if you wanted to read something truly novel, this is maybe not the book for you.
February 28, 2024
This summer, I took THE NEXT BIG THING on my family road trip and enjoyed this #holidayread as we tracked down some 'big things'.
James Colley injects quintessential Aussie humour in this coming-of-age story about friendship, family, love and loss against the backdrop of small-town life.
The colourful personalities of Norman brought an entertaining and empathetic perspective to the joys and challenges faced by small-town communities. Norm's story is charming, endearing and very relatable and I was eager to see him succeed. The anecdotes about various 'big things' throughout the book were also a nice touch.
James Colley injects quintessential Aussie humour in this coming-of-age story about friendship, family, love and loss against the backdrop of small-town life.
The colourful personalities of Norman brought an entertaining and empathetic perspective to the joys and challenges faced by small-town communities. Norm's story is charming, endearing and very relatable and I was eager to see him succeed. The anecdotes about various 'big things' throughout the book were also a nice touch.
August 7, 2024
Australia has a fascination with “big things” - the Big Banana, Big Merino, Big Pineapple etc….
This book takes that idea into a small town that needs a new life and therefore wants to build their own “big thing”.
It was a cute, and very Australian, read!
This book takes that idea into a small town that needs a new life and therefore wants to build their own “big thing”.
It was a cute, and very Australian, read!
July 18, 2024
Absolutely loved this! Friendship, love, community and family - those you're born with and those you choose, or who choose you. Made me laugh out loud in parts, get a little fuzzy eyed in others, and had me rooting for Norm, Ella and Norman all the way ❤️
October 7, 2024
Cute enough story.
1 star each for Miranda Tapsell narration and the character "Pup the old dog"
1 star each for Miranda Tapsell narration and the character "Pup the old dog"
Read
April 13, 2025DNF
October 21, 2024
A pretty entertaining little tale. Some really funny moments, but I I felt like there were a few too many stereotypical characters that doesn’t reflect well on regional areas.
March 17, 2024
Norm had lived in Norman his whole life. But the town was dying. He had a grand plan to save it - a Big Thing, like Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana or Ballina’s Big Prawn, which he knew would drive tourism to the town and give it a future. Ella, meanwhile, planned to leave Norman for the big smoke. But she encouraged Norm’s big idea nonetheless. At least they’d have one last perfect summer together. Could Norm convince her that she could have a future here too, maybe even with him?
Aww, I loved this story! While I’d never live in a small town like Norman myself, I loved reading about it and its tight-knit community (although, the Norman folks might not be the warmest bunch you’d want to come across 👀).
As expected, this was a heartwarming story. It started (darkly) funny, but then it got progressively deeper as Norm started to question everything about life and his own existence. I didn’t know where the plot was heading for a second, but I liked the conclusion.
And I think I need to mention the awesome cover design and font choice. That cover was what attracted me in the first place, and the neat, cute font just made me happy. Loved the look-and-feel of this!
(Thanks to Pantera Press for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
Aww, I loved this story! While I’d never live in a small town like Norman myself, I loved reading about it and its tight-knit community (although, the Norman folks might not be the warmest bunch you’d want to come across 👀).
As expected, this was a heartwarming story. It started (darkly) funny, but then it got progressively deeper as Norm started to question everything about life and his own existence. I didn’t know where the plot was heading for a second, but I liked the conclusion.
And I think I need to mention the awesome cover design and font choice. That cover was what attracted me in the first place, and the neat, cute font just made me happy. Loved the look-and-feel of this!
(Thanks to Pantera Press for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
March 6, 2024
Fun story about revitalisation of a country town with a “Big Thing.”
June 6, 2024
Cute, quirky, witty!
December 17, 2023
At the start of this book I had to keep reminding myself that Norm was a teen/young adult. It took me quite awhile to get my head around. I think it was the name and I just assumed Norm was an old name. It's a name that you definitely don't hear at the moment in young people.
I think I was expecting "big things" from this book and it didn't live up to my expectations. I enjoyed the little snippets about the big things at the start of each chapter, but it didn't bring me enough throughout the book to keep me interested. I felt like it was more of a love story. In my head, I was expecting for the characters to visit more big things, or to build a big thing earlier on in the book and have that story told. I felt like the big thing was put to the side of the story behind the 2 main characters entwined relationship.
There were many little stories going on behind the main story and at times I felt like it was hard to keep up with it all. Every character had a story and the author wrote them all in. It made it confusing at times.
I think I was expecting "big things" from this book and it didn't live up to my expectations. I enjoyed the little snippets about the big things at the start of each chapter, but it didn't bring me enough throughout the book to keep me interested. I felt like it was more of a love story. In my head, I was expecting for the characters to visit more big things, or to build a big thing earlier on in the book and have that story told. I felt like the big thing was put to the side of the story behind the 2 main characters entwined relationship.
There were many little stories going on behind the main story and at times I felt like it was hard to keep up with it all. Every character had a story and the author wrote them all in. It made it confusing at times.
January 8, 2024
The Next Big Thing is about Australia’s love of “big things” throughout regional Australia. Norm from Norman, a dying town in country Victoria is looking for something to save his beloved town from extinction, and cooks up an idea for the next big thing to help save his town.
The nostalgia I felt for my childhood visits to the big things didn’t make up for the lack of character development and I found the structure of the book confusing, with chapters jumping back and forth in time without any warning.
This was not for me but would recommend to anyone who enjoys a story about modern Australian society and a feeling of nostalgia .
The nostalgia I felt for my childhood visits to the big things didn’t make up for the lack of character development and I found the structure of the book confusing, with chapters jumping back and forth in time without any warning.
This was not for me but would recommend to anyone who enjoys a story about modern Australian society and a feeling of nostalgia .
May 22, 2024
The fake newspaper reviews of Norman's Big Thing were spectacularly spot-on. Full review to come but those were a highlight 😂
December 30, 2023
The Next Big Thing by James Colley: A Rom-Com Romp to Save a Town
James Colley's "The Next Big Thing" isn't just a laugh-out-loud rom-com, it's a love letter to small towns and the resilience of their hearts. Norm, our lovable protagonist, faces the daunting task of reviving his dying town, Norman. His solution? Building a wacky tourist attraction, something akin to the Big Banana or Big Prawn. What unfolds is a hilarious ride filled with quirky characters, heart-warming friendships, and a slow-burn romance that'll keep you turning pages.
Colley has a knack for crafting witty dialogue and slapstick situations. Picture Norm wrestling with a rogue sheep or getting tangled in a love triangle fueled by misunderstood emails. You'll find yourself snorting with laughter at the most unexpected moments.
Norman isn't just a location, it's a community you'll come to cherish. From the gruff but secretly supportive mayor to the tech-savvy teenager with a penchant for conspiracy theories, each character feels distinct and endearing. And then there's Ella, Norm's best friend and potential love interest. Their banter is sparkling, their bond unbreakable, and their journey towards romance is both sweet and satisfying.
Beneath the laughs, "The Next Big Thing" celebrates the spirit of small communities. It's about remembering what truly matters – human connection, resilience in the face of adversity, and the power of believing in crazy dreams.
A charming and hilarious rom-com with a big heart. "The Next Big Thing" is a feel-good read perfect for escaping into a quirky small town with unforgettable characters and a love story that warms the soul. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and prepare to laugh, swoon, and cheer for Norm as he builds not just a tourist attraction, but a future for his beloved Norman.
James Colley's "The Next Big Thing" isn't just a laugh-out-loud rom-com, it's a love letter to small towns and the resilience of their hearts. Norm, our lovable protagonist, faces the daunting task of reviving his dying town, Norman. His solution? Building a wacky tourist attraction, something akin to the Big Banana or Big Prawn. What unfolds is a hilarious ride filled with quirky characters, heart-warming friendships, and a slow-burn romance that'll keep you turning pages.
Colley has a knack for crafting witty dialogue and slapstick situations. Picture Norm wrestling with a rogue sheep or getting tangled in a love triangle fueled by misunderstood emails. You'll find yourself snorting with laughter at the most unexpected moments.
Norman isn't just a location, it's a community you'll come to cherish. From the gruff but secretly supportive mayor to the tech-savvy teenager with a penchant for conspiracy theories, each character feels distinct and endearing. And then there's Ella, Norm's best friend and potential love interest. Their banter is sparkling, their bond unbreakable, and their journey towards romance is both sweet and satisfying.
Beneath the laughs, "The Next Big Thing" celebrates the spirit of small communities. It's about remembering what truly matters – human connection, resilience in the face of adversity, and the power of believing in crazy dreams.
A charming and hilarious rom-com with a big heart. "The Next Big Thing" is a feel-good read perfect for escaping into a quirky small town with unforgettable characters and a love story that warms the soul. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and prepare to laugh, swoon, and cheer for Norm as he builds not just a tourist attraction, but a future for his beloved Norman.
February 13, 2024
“Not all parents are capable of sacrifice.”
This book was so beautiful and moving, I loved it so much and it was completely different to what I was expecting.
Norm from Norman is an absolute sweetheart and has a big idea to help his sleepy town from dying. Norm is quite lonely but has his bestie, Ella. Together they try and bring their town back.
Norm and Ella’s friendship is so sweet and special. My heart hurt for Norm so much, I cried a lot for him and really wanted so much more for him because life had been so unfair.
This book was fun but there were also some really heartfelt moments as well, especially about losing loved ones, being alone and finding your person. This book brought out so many emotions for me, I was not expecting this at all!
It’s the sweetest rom com! So many tears and laughs, truly such a delight. So clever and witty with a perfect ending!
I had a giggle with terms I haven’t heard in a while like “space cadet” and calling someone “Cadbury” haha so much fun!
I loved this book and I want everyone to read it!!
Thanks so much @panterapress for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was so beautiful and moving, I loved it so much and it was completely different to what I was expecting.
Norm from Norman is an absolute sweetheart and has a big idea to help his sleepy town from dying. Norm is quite lonely but has his bestie, Ella. Together they try and bring their town back.
Norm and Ella’s friendship is so sweet and special. My heart hurt for Norm so much, I cried a lot for him and really wanted so much more for him because life had been so unfair.
This book was fun but there were also some really heartfelt moments as well, especially about losing loved ones, being alone and finding your person. This book brought out so many emotions for me, I was not expecting this at all!
It’s the sweetest rom com! So many tears and laughs, truly such a delight. So clever and witty with a perfect ending!
I had a giggle with terms I haven’t heard in a while like “space cadet” and calling someone “Cadbury” haha so much fun!
I loved this book and I want everyone to read it!!
Thanks so much @panterapress for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2023
As a veteran of many a road trip in Australia, the Next Big Thing is a phrase we heard as kids "just up the road is the Next Big Thing" and we'd be craning our necks to spot it peeking over the horizon first - this book made me feel the same way.
I felt like I was always waiting for something exciting to happen to Norm from Norman and kept getting not quite there. In fact I was waiting for any kind of explanation of Norm from Norman and think the author spent so long avoiding telling the whole story of Norm from Norman that I got bored and stopped caring.
The descriptions of the town (and the surrounding towns as they close) is melancholy and I do think, very sympathetic, but the people are just so boring or 1-dimensional that I was struggling to finish this book. Overall I class this as a holiday read - that you can leave behind in a town you pass through on your way to The Next Big Thing.
Thanks to Better Reading for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I felt like I was always waiting for something exciting to happen to Norm from Norman and kept getting not quite there. In fact I was waiting for any kind of explanation of Norm from Norman and think the author spent so long avoiding telling the whole story of Norm from Norman that I got bored and stopped caring.
The descriptions of the town (and the surrounding towns as they close) is melancholy and I do think, very sympathetic, but the people are just so boring or 1-dimensional that I was struggling to finish this book. Overall I class this as a holiday read - that you can leave behind in a town you pass through on your way to The Next Big Thing.
Thanks to Better Reading for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2024
Thank you Pantera Press for sending us a copy to read and review.
When you think of quintessentially Australianisms a few things come to mind.
Firstly our obsession with building huge iconic structures of food or animals in our regional areas and secondly our laid back country towns that have a consistent social rhythm and fabric that make them uniquely ours.
Norm is from Norman.
A town that is suffering economically and socially as people and jobs disappear.
Norm announces that the town needs to build the country’s next big thing to revive it.
Ella is very close to Norm.
Their friendship has strong rituals and a bond that is strong but never fully explored.
But she plans to leave the town and study.
Together they plan the build.
There was something so real and familiar in the journey the characters take and the events that transpire.
It will pull the heart strings and allow you to reminisce about travels to towns that have a big thing and what financial and emotional repercussions a tourist brings.
When you think of quintessentially Australianisms a few things come to mind.
Firstly our obsession with building huge iconic structures of food or animals in our regional areas and secondly our laid back country towns that have a consistent social rhythm and fabric that make them uniquely ours.
Norm is from Norman.
A town that is suffering economically and socially as people and jobs disappear.
Norm announces that the town needs to build the country’s next big thing to revive it.
Ella is very close to Norm.
Their friendship has strong rituals and a bond that is strong but never fully explored.
But she plans to leave the town and study.
Together they plan the build.
There was something so real and familiar in the journey the characters take and the events that transpire.
It will pull the heart strings and allow you to reminisce about travels to towns that have a big thing and what financial and emotional repercussions a tourist brings.
December 16, 2023
I loved this! So much so I started it on Friday and finished it by Sunday afternoon - disregarding the other six books I had on the go already. This is a quintessentially Australian comedy that manages to be moving, charming, funny and a little bit silly all at the same time.
"Nothing is normal in Norman." says Norm. He should know he has been in this town all his life and he loves it. Almost as much as he loves Ella. Norm knows Norman isn't the liveliest of towns and when it is announced that yet another nearby township is getting shut down he also knows it is going to take a really big idea to save Norman. And it might just be big enough to keep Ella in town too. Norm decides that what Norman really needs is a "big thing" but what big thing is big enough to save a town?
This story has the heart and charm of Graeme Simsion's The Rosie Project or movies like The Castle or Muriel's wedding. Norm and Ella both have things they need to face if they are to get together and there is more going on in Norman than either suspect both in the past and in the present.
As much as I enjoyed this there were some part of the narrative that didn't flow super easily and a few times the writing could be polished up a little for greater clarity but I was reading an ARC so that might be fixed in the final. I feel this is a writer with so much to say and I am looking forward to seeing what he puts out next.
"Nothing is normal in Norman." says Norm. He should know he has been in this town all his life and he loves it. Almost as much as he loves Ella. Norm knows Norman isn't the liveliest of towns and when it is announced that yet another nearby township is getting shut down he also knows it is going to take a really big idea to save Norman. And it might just be big enough to keep Ella in town too. Norm decides that what Norman really needs is a "big thing" but what big thing is big enough to save a town?
This story has the heart and charm of Graeme Simsion's The Rosie Project or movies like The Castle or Muriel's wedding. Norm and Ella both have things they need to face if they are to get together and there is more going on in Norman than either suspect both in the past and in the present.
As much as I enjoyed this there were some part of the narrative that didn't flow super easily and a few times the writing could be polished up a little for greater clarity but I was reading an ARC so that might be fixed in the final. I feel this is a writer with so much to say and I am looking forward to seeing what he puts out next.
March 19, 2024
Not bad, not good. Going from the rear blurb: "heartwarming" yes, "hilarious" no. Moderately entertaining in a predictable story kind of way. Structurally challenging - too many town characters introduced that don't go anywhere. And very uneven treatment of story lines (the primary one of Ella/Norm, secondary one about Mayor Billy, tertiary ones of Sandy, Mick, Rocko, etc) - we follow the main one for several chapters then randomly jump to another (sometimes in a confusing past time zone). Some just weren't that interesting or with insufficient background to explain their perspective. Plus I kept having to go back 50 pages to recall where we left the secondary or tertiary characters last time ...
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