Picture an American storyteller who captures the raw, messy magic of teenage life with heart and wit—meet Siobhan Vivian! Born in 1979, this New York Times bestselling author has carved a niche in young adult fiction with novels like The List and the Burn for Burn Trilogy. Her stories, brimming with authentic characters and relatable struggles, resonate deeply with readers navigating the chaos of adolescence.
With a background in screenwriting and a passion for teaching, Vivian transforms her New Jersey roots and creative insights into narratives that feel like a heart-to-heart with a best friend. Let’s dive into her journey, works, and why she’s a must-read for YA fans!
The Making of Siobhan Vivian
Siobhan Vivian was born on January 12, 1979, in New York City but grew up in Rutherford, New Jersey, where her rebellious streak—think sneaking out and dodging homework—shaped her storytelling. A 1997 Rutherford High School grad, she found her calling in a creative writing class, her first taste of praise for work that didn’t feel like work. She earned a BFA in Writing for Film and Television from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and an MFA in Creative Writing: Children’s Literature from The New School in New York, where she met lifelong friend and collaborator Jenny Han. Early gigs as a scriptwriter for Playhouse Disney’s Little Einsteins and an editor at Alloy Entertainment honed her craft before she leapt into novels.
Siobhan Vivian’s Unforgettable Stories
Vivian’s novels are like a front-row seat to the emotional rollercoaster of teenage life. Her 2008 debut, A Little Friendly Advice, follows Ruby, a 16-year-old grappling with friendship and family drama, setting the tone for Vivian’s knack for authentic voices. Same Difference (2009) earned a Kirkus Reviews Best Book nod, exploring identity through Emily’s summer art program. Not That Kind of Girl (2010) tackles ambition and reputation with Natalie, a student council hopeful, and snagged ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults honors.
Her standout, The List (2012), inspired by a real New Jersey high school tradition, dives into the fallout of a brutal beauty ranking, earning ALA accolades and an MTV adaptation option. Co-written with Jenny Han, the Burn for Burn Trilogy (2012–2014) blends revenge and romance on Jar Island, showcasing Vivian’s flair for complex female friendships. Her 2016 novel, The Last Boy and Girl in the World, inspired by Pennsylvania’s flooded Livermore, weaves love and loss as a town faces submersion. Vivian’s style—raw, feminist, and grounded—captures teens defining themselves amid societal pressures.
Why Siobhan Vivian Matters
Siobhan Vivian’s impact lies in her unapologetic focus on teenage girls’ inner lives. Her feminist lens challenges stereotypes, portraying young women as flawed, ambitious, and resilient. Her work resonates globally, with translations in French, Spanish, and more, and inspires readers to embrace their authentic selves. As a Creative Writing professor at the University of Pittsburgh, she shapes future storytellers, passing on her passion for crafting real, relatable narratives. Vivian’s stories don’t just entertain—they empower a generation to navigate identity and relationships with courage.
- Born: January 12, 1979, in New York City
- Key Works: The List, Burn for Burn Trilogy, The Last Boy and Girl in the World
- Awards: ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults, Kirkus Reviews Best Book
- Current Role: Creative Writing professor at the University of Pittsburgh
About Siobhan Vivian
Snag The List or dive into the Burn for Burn Trilogy to experience Siobhan Vivian’s vibrant, heartfelt YA world. Her stories are a perfect blend of drama, heart, and truth—trust us, you’ll be hooked!