My (Extra)Ordinary Life by Rebecca Ryan published today

Happy publication day to Rebecca Ryan, author of the wonderful debut novel My (Extra)Ordinary Life.

Have you ever wondered how normal you are? What if you were perfectly average? More than anyone else.

For Emily – it’s true.

While watching a documentary on the average human, she realises the programme is essentially describing her. Her name, her hair colour, her occupation. Other than the fact Emily was born a twin, she is exceptionally average. But her sister died when they were only eight, and Emily has always secretly suspected that she would have done a better job at living. Better than average anyway. So she writes a list committing herself to living a more extraordinary life, including becoming a vegan, running a marathon and doing a bungee jump.

The only thing Emily knows she can’t do is fall in love… because the stats say now is the perfect time to meet the person she’ll marry. And average just won’t do.

This funny, heart-warming and relatable tale is published by Simon & Schuster UK and has already received brilliant reviews from major magazines.

‘Funny, heartfelt, and tackling the complexity of grief in an original way, this debut is far from average’ – Heat

‘Snortingly funny and painfully perceptive, Ryan is brilliant on the messiness and awkwardness of grief, love, family and figuring out how to be yourself in a world that just wants you to be ‘normal’. Emily is one of the most fiercely loveable protagonists I’ve met in a long time. I cringed at her mistakes like they were my own, cheered on her victories like they were my best friend’s, and felt totally bereft when it was over ‘ – Lauren Bravo

‘Funny and heartwarming’ – Closer

‘Funny and emotional – this is a top read’ – Fabulous Magazine

‘A sparkling novel with a relatable protagonist’ – Woman’s Own

‘Bradford-based Ryan…goes to the top of the class with this debut about a fresh start that will take you from all-out laughter to tears’ – The Sunday Post

Rebecca Ryan grew up in Hartlepool. As a teenager she would write short stories which she stored in a lever arch file. In alphabetical order. After studying at Nottingham University, she moved to Yorkshire and took a position teaching history at a comprehensive school in Bradford. Rebecca is passionate about providing opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Congratulations, Rebecca!