A new narrative verse YA novel from award-winning author Tia Fisher.
When Marnie’s rebellious streak gets her excluded from her exclusive school, she’s forced to take her GCSEs elsewhere, and sit next to Zed, a control-freak physics nerd with zero tolerance for mistakes—which is awkward because Marnie’s about to make the biggest blunder of her life.
Not Going to Plan is a taboo-busting novel about gender identity, consent and shame, which unflinchingly explores the heart-rending decisions a teenager must make as a result of a sexual encounter she didn’t fully consent to.
Praise for Not Going to Plan
“Not Going to Plan brings a fresh approach to the topic of teenage relationships and identity, avoiding cliches, sentimentality or simple answers. So often when adolescent relationships are dramatised, facts fly out of the window. It’s great to read a story where threads of useful and accurate information are woven through an engaging, thought-provoking story.” -Lisa Hallgarten, Head of Policy & Public Affairs at Brook.
“Told from two perspectives, this poignant, powerful, often hilarious 14+ verse novel asks questions about respect, consent and how to hold it together when the plan falls apart.” – The Guardian
“A cautionary but funny tale for young adults.” – The Sunday Post
“Fisher’s narrative verse makes the serious subject matter accessible without tapering its impact. […] Not Going To Plan is an essential read for young adults navigating sexual and platonic relationships and the issues of peer pressure, consent and social conformity. Important taboos are smashed in this novel, whilst comfort is offered within shared experiences and the realisation of others sharing similar struggles.” – The School Reading List
“It’s also worth emphasising just how good Fisher’s writing is. The verse is immediately engaging and accessible, and often makes playful and creative use of layout to capture Marnie and Zed’s emotions.” – Just Imagine
“This book needs to be in the hands of teenagers and their carers.” – Kate Martin, author of Are You Okay, Elliot Hart?