A science nerd she went to modelling school at 15 - happily modelling at a department store for extra money but not taking it too seriously. And for every trip, as dangerous as it appeared to be…there was a plan.Īnd for Maye, this was the key: whatever the situation you have to have a plan. Their ideas and interests were a creative masterplan in how to survive. Her chiropractic father had a plane and flying somewhere for a conference or holiday was common practice, and this was not the sort of plane we are used to! Her mother Wyn was a journalist and taught ballroom dancing and ballet who continued to be active until her death at 96. Moving from Canada to South Africa her parents were adventurers. She, her twin sister Kaye and three other siblings learned at an early age to be independent and their young lives were, in anyone’s books, pretty magical. Lying down and letting life stomp all over you is not in her plan. Her story is compelling, with resilience at its heart.

Privileged as a child - yes, but as an adult, no. When i first picked up the book i was a little sceptical – privilege and all that. Her life has been full of adventure and she writes in a frank, no-nonsense style imparting sound advice that can be used by any woman of any age. If the title has a familiar ring then you’re right as it stems from the South African phrase ‘N’Boer maak ‘n plan’ which she learnt when growing up in South Africa. Add to that a thriving dietician practice and her energy is infectious.

A woman makes a plan book