The internet defines Gerard Kane. But after a death in the family and a dumping, can going off-grid save him?

His pursuit of something outside the saturation of data takes him from Cardiff, and a web of family members caught in cycles of selfies and online gambling or relationships which fade without their Instagram filter, to a new community in the Danish woodland.

The Offline Project is the second novel from Welsh writer Dan Tyte and features illustrations by Max Low.

This sharp and highly contemporary narrative probes into our dependence on the internet, and to what extent we might be able to free ourselves from this, a concern of immediate relevance to an increasing number of the population.

Dan Tyte was born and raised in Cardiff before studying English Literature at the University of Liverpool. His debut novel,Half Plus Seven, was very well received. His short story, 'Onwards' featured in the story collection Rarebit and is frequently taught at the American University of Paris. The Western Mail newspaper selected him as their ‘Writer to Watch’ for 2014. Dan has performed at the Hay Festival, Southbank Centre and Edinburgh Fringe and is a regular commentator on BBC Radio Wales.

‘An exceptionally funny, well-observed and street-smart book, as self-aware as it is sensitive. The dialogue is as authentic as any I’ve read this year, almost as if Tyte has secretly recorded conversations and simply transcribed them word for word… If critics do their jobs and seek it out, it should win lots of awards.’ Jane Graham, The Big Issue

‘A really interesting little book about a guy whose life is so damaged by social media that he goes completely offline, turning into a weird kind of Truman Show thing. It’s so well written, it’s funny, it’s intelligent. I really hope this book catapults him to fame.’ The Afternoon Show, BBC Radio Scotland

‘Brilliant, clever writing. A must-read.’ Buzz Magazine

‘A wonderfully satirical and incisive look at the ills of our modern online culture.’ Wales Arts Review

‘A deeply engaging read. Not only does Tyte capture Gerard’s online life in believable detail, he also writes cracking dialogue. These are rounded, believable characters portrayed with warmth.’ Western Mail