Craig Thomas, known for co-creating 'How I Met Your Mother', has announced the release of his debut novel, 'That’s Not How It Happened', set to hit shelves on November 4, 2025.

The story centers around a family whose lives are adapted into a movie, exploring themes of disability and personal storytelling.

As Paige writes her memoir, it unexpectedly becomes a bestseller, catching the attention of actress-producer Merritt Berkshire, who expresses interest in turning it into a film.

The narrative unfolds from multiple perspectives, showcasing the family's dynamics as they navigate the implications of the film adaptation on their relationships.

The family's reactions to the potential film adaptation vary: Rob sees it as a chance for career revival, Darcy fears losing her identity, and Emmett hopes to propose to his girlfriend and meet his idol, Eddie Vedder.

The protagonist, Paige, is a stay-at-home mother whose husband Rob's successful screenwriting career prompts her to write a memoir about the challenges of motherhood, particularly raising their son Emmett, who has Down syndrome.

April Osborn, a senior editor at Hanover Square Press, has acquired the North American rights for this highly anticipated novel.

Thomas draws from his own experiences as a father to a son with Jacobsen syndrome, aiming to spark conversations about disability representation in storytelling.

Carter Bays, Thomas' co-creator on 'How I Met Your Mother', released his debut novel in 2022, marking a new chapter for both creators in their literary pursuits.

The audiobook version will feature a reunion of 'How I Met Your Mother' stars Josh Radnor and Cobie Smulders as narrators, produced by Harlequin Audio.