John Murray snaps up a 'half-arse self-help guide' by Leena Norms

John Murray has snapped up a "half-arse self-help guide" by poet and vlogger Leena Norms.

Publishing director Kate Hewson acquired world rights to Half-Arse Human: How To Live Better Without Burning Out from Hattie Grünewald at The Blair Partnership, and the book will be published in December 2024.

"Leena Norms is a half-arser," the synopsis says. "A shave-one-legger. A rinse-the-plates-and-tell-herself-any-residual-dirt-will-improve-her-immune-system-er. And yet, she is determined to live better, build a career, strengthen her relationships, be good to her body, sort out her wardrobe, find meaningful hobbies, act on her ethics, and live a full, passionate, varied life. And it’s possible."

The synopsis adds: "Half-Arse Human will show you how to harness the power of considered chaos and upgrade the parts of your life that really matter, without expending more than you have to give. Trying to be superhuman is out — being a half-arse human is in. Find out why living a life of slap-dash isn’t as shameful as it seems; in fact, it might be the key to living the life you’ve always wanted."

Hewson said: "I’ve long admired Leena’s no-bs approach to making your life, and the world, a better place, and Half-Arse Human is the Sarah Knight for the roaring 20s I always hoped she’d write. It’s approachable, manageable, funny, but with a core of steel about improving the way we live."

Norms added: "It’s a book about upgrading your life that doesn’t expect you to become someone you’re not, or pretend we live in a perfect world – but can still boost you to a better life. No personality transplant, overnight makeover or can-do attitude required; come as you are. It’s been a joy to write and I can’t wait to make half-arsers of you all!"