Maisy Hayes feels like the background character of her life. Never the prettiest, the smartest, or the coolest in the room. Never with the newest phone, most expensive shoes, or designer bag. Her special treat only ever came in the form of a dollar slushie from the mall.
Maisy faces a situation no teen, let alone adult, wants to encounter. The Hayes family is deep in financial trouble, struggling to make ends meet.
With Maisy’s absent father lurking in the back of her mind, she is determined to make a future for herself. She’s not sure what yet — though she is positive she wants anything but a life like her mum's.
She dreams of having enough money not to live paycheck to paycheck. To buy things without thinking of the cost.
Maisy is soon to find out her father is off living overseas with his ‘perfect’ new family — the one he left her for. She expects nothing less, though an unwelcome cloud of disappointment sinks to the bottom of her stomach as it always does, adding to the pile growing heavy beneath her.
Between the financial hardship Maisy is confronted with, and her sister's heart problem, she has given up on her dream of a ‘normal’ teenage life. When her father reaches out and insists that they come over, it is everything she has ever hoped for. The rich, lavish life she has always aspired to reach. Although she initially enjoys being showered with expensive gifts and luxurious purchases, she quickly finds that something feels off. It is up to her to question her morals and discover what she truly wants.
This novel delves into the struggle of hardship and the difficulty in coping with frustration. It explores individual identity and standing up for what you believe in. Webster strategically constructs this message throughout the novel, guiding readers to reflect on their values and what is important to them.
It is a truly unforgettable read.
Highly recommended.
Title: Maisy Hayes is Not For Sale
Author: Allayne L Webster
Publisher: Text Publishing, $22.99
Publication Date: 2 September 2025
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781923058545
For ages: 12 -16
Type: Young Adult
