THE COMPLEX ART OF BEING MAISIE CLARK

Maisie Clark is entering her first year at London College of Art with a plan: step out of her comfort zone and discover her artistic voice—or quit art altogether.

Back home in upstate New York, Maisie painted portraits at her parents’ shop, and she’s become so good at seamlessly imitating her father’s style that their work can be indistinguishable. Determined to break free and express herself, she decides to experiment with new media, make friends, and reinvent her look in London. But Maisie’s plans quickly hit some snags—she hates her classes and struggles to connect with people. Things take an introspective turn when she partners with photography classmate Eli on a project that challenges her perspectives on herself and her family. When her parents’ portrait shop is vandalized, Maisie must confront a painful chapter in her family’s past and in her relationship with her older brother. Her slow-burn romantic relationship with Eli unfolds with authentic highs and lows. Both teens are white, and Eli is trans; this aspect of his identity is subtly woven into his characterization, offering insight into how his past has shaped his present. Maisie is funny, awkward, and occasionally overbearing. Her inner voice captures the confused, unfiltered thoughts of a teenager—full of self-doubt, sarcasm, and bursts of confidence—in this thoughtful, character-driven story of growth.

A well-realized coming-of-age story that celebrates art and the journey to accepting yourself.