A powerful verse novel about sexual consent, unplanned pregnancy and the breaking of taboos.
A powerful verse novel about sexual consent, unplanned pregnancy and the breaking of taboos.
MARNIE'S REALLY MESSED UP THIS TIME.
Expelled and forced to change schools, the only empty seat in Marnie's new school is next to Zed, a nerd with zero tolerance for mistakes. Marnie (skilled at art and Spanish, struggles with numbers) can't wait to lose her virginity. Zed (brilliant at maths and physics, loathes languages) is a loner who can't stand being touched. They couldn't be less alike, but they both need good grades in the subjects they hate.
What starts as a trade in tuition turns into an unlikely friendship - and after Marnie has sex with a boy who lies about using a condom, she needs Zed's help to make the hardest decision of her life.
"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
"As in the very best YA fiction, Fisher explores a wide variety of sensitive topics whilst still crafting a narrative that feels honest, believable and character-driven. It never reads like a PSHE lesson but nonetheless imparts vital messages for young people. [...] It's also worth emphasising just how good Fisher's writing is. The verse is immediately engaging and accessible" - Just Imagine
"The visual verse format adds urgency and space to breathe, making it a powerful, relatable read for teens facing big questions. Highly recommended for KS4." - The School Reading List
"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
