Same Water

May 17 2025

Same Water

Release Date: June 2 2025

Sequel. That was my first thought after reading the last words. I wanted more. What great adventure now awaits? I won’t give you any spoilers, though. Suffice it to say, you will be left wanting more, as I did.

Empathy. That was my first thought after chapter 5. I can only imagine being in that position as both parent and child. By chapter 8, I wanted to give Shaye a big hug and tell her it’s going to be all right.

It’s an eloquently written fictional biopic that appeals to both teens and adults. The sub-current of anxiety, and its origin, is deftly handled and isn’t the distraction it could have been. It’s not a heavy-handed treatment of a delicate subject, there is plenty of levity, intellect, love, and joy to go around.

I particularly enjoyed the use of Schrödinger's Cat, the house metaphor, and the potato and egg. That last one I had to write down for myself to remember, as I think we all should.

Shaye is a sympathetic character, she’s tough but compassionate, strong, yet vulnerable. She’s well written and developed, as are the other main characters; none are superfluous, everyone has a part to play.

Overall, it was delightful and I can recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, yet reflective ride from chaos to order, loss to restoration.