The Disorganisation of Celia Stone

Every woman should have this book on their to-do list.

Meet Celia Stone, the ultimate hyper-organised, journal-obsessed thirty-something with a life that is perfectly planned out and running like clockwork. From her promising writing career to her devoted partner and rigorous fitness routine, Celia has it all – and she’s right on track with her early retirement plan. But when her husband suggests it’s time to start a family, Celia begins to question whether a new addition might just throw off-course everything she’s worked so hard to achieve. Follow Celia’s diary entries on a year-long journey of self-discovery as she navigates the ups and downs of trying to have it all.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

‘… an exploration of anxiety, perfectionism, grief, relationships and diet culture that handles its concerns with emotional acuity and welcome humour.’ West Weekend

‘Though the book asks big questions and can be confronting in parts, this is a novel with a lot of heart and a lot to say. It’s perfect for the Bridget fan who got frustrated at all of the calorie counting, and has a touch of Marian Keyes at its most insouciant moments. I loved it!’ Emily Paull, AU Review

‘Young — whose first novel, The Last Bookshop, was shortlisted for the Fogarty Literary Award in 2019 — has spoken of drawing on some of her own experiences, and even her own diary entries, in writing Celia’s story. The result is an exploration of anxiety, perfectionism, grief, relationships and diet culture that handles its concerns with emotional acuity and welcome humour.’ Gemma Nisbit, West Australian

‘Move over Bridget Jones – there’s another diarist in town and she is funnier, savvier and even more relatable. Like so many of us, Celia wants her life to be perfect, but she isn’t quite sure what perfect is. Watching her navigate that journey will make you laugh and cry all in the same chapter. Filled with witty observations, this book has just the right mix of tenderness and joy.’ Natasha Lester

‘The Disorganisation of Celia Stone is an important reminder of what really matters most in life, packaged in an inventive, thought-provoking and ultimately uplifting narrative. If you’ve ever let a messed up filing system or a missed day at the gym throw off your entire day – this is mandatory reading!’ Better Reading

‘A thoroughly enjoyable and witty read for those who enjoyed Graeme Simsion’s The Rosie Project, Gail Honeywell’s Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine or Sasha Wasley’s Spring Clean for the Peach Queen.’ Books+Publishing

‘Structurally, this novel is one of the most inventive and unusual I’ve picked up in a while – it really does feel like stepping into Celia’s diary! Rich with insights into the real-world self-development resources that Celia draws from, it reads almost as part fiction, part reference book. What’s so beautiful about this format is that it allows readers to grow and learn alongside Celia. I have no doubt that Celia’s journey will spark many parallel, real-world journeys of self-discovery!’ Better Reading

‘It was clear that Young has done extensive research into the fields of eating disorders, hypothalamic amenorrhea, anxiety and perfectionism. She has captured the thoughts, emotions and battles faced by those suffering these conditions and given insight and explained the science behind the paths leading to recovery. I laughed, cried and celebrated along with Celia and will miss reading about her daily battles. I really loved this book and found it extremely therapeutic. I highly recommend it to all, especially those suffering from eating disorders or perfectionism.’ Mary-Jo, 5 Stars, Better Reading

‘In this story, Emma Young explores how difficult it is to battle any type of mental illness, and it also shows how it impacts those around the person who is battling these challenges.’ Beauty + Lace

‘It’s not just a book; it’s a raw and real exploration of the complexities of striving for balance in the face of change.’ Happy Mag

‘The Disorganisation of Celia Stone is not only one of the clearest, most explicit explorations of modern womanhood, societal pressure and self-identification to come in recent years, it’s also a bloody good read. It’s a timely, important and raw novel sparkling with life.’ Westerly

‘Reading Celia’s innermost thoughts is remarkably healing through humorous jolts of comedic relief, and is a must read for women in their 20s and beyond.’ Writing WA