PUSH Spotlight: Same Difference by Siobhan Vivian

Emily is ready for a change. She's been in the same town with the same friends for a long time...and none of them really understand her art. But when she goes to Philadelphia for a summer art institute, she suddenly finds like-minded people. One in particular, Fiona, intrigues and challenges her. But there are some things Emily is going to have to find out for herself -- like what the balance is between life and art, and which is more important when push comes to shove. 


I just finished Siobhan Vivian's second novel Same Difference, and I loved it. She has created a likable character in Emily who is beginning to realize a new sense of self during her summer art program and discovers just how intoxicating new friendships can be.

I could see many similarities between Emily and myself when I was a teenager - how unsure I was of myself and my talents and a bit nervous when making new friends. Like Emily, I had the same best friend since childhood and would sometimes be cautious when making new friends. It felt like a bit of a betrayal, but not for any specific reason - just that our friendship was so rooted in history and I'd question how much of myself I'd want this new friend to know about me. 

Vivian's details are captivating - making me feel like I could actually see the art created Emily, Fiona and Yates and wishing that I could. There isn't a lot of action that pulls the story along, but the authentic characters and their experiences in Same Difference reminds me why I'm drawn to YA lit time and time again.