Smith's novel "NW" was published in 2012. The story happens in the Kilburn area of north-west London. So, the title comes from the local postcode, NW6. "NW" was shortlisted for the Royal Society of Literature's Ondaatje Prize and the Women's Prize for Fiction. "NW" was made into a BBC television film directed by Saul Dibb and adapted by Rachel Bennette. Starring Nikki Amuka-Bird and Phoebe Fox, it was broadcast on BBC Two on 14 November 2016.