“Lies We Tell About The Stars” by Susie Nadler
“I think for kids, a lot of times, what they connect with in a story is the choices the character’s making that feel authentic to choices they might make themselves. That was something that was always in my mind when I was writing, is like, what would a young person who doesn’t have a lot of experience making decisions do when she’s confronted with tragedy, when she is [supposed] to act in a way that is beyond her years…”
After years of chasing her dream of becoming a published author, Susie Nadler immediately captivated us with a poignant debut set against the backdrop of a catastrophic earthquake and space exploration. Lies We Tell About The Stars is a unique, multi-genre blend of coming of age, tragedy, friendship, and adventure. And her journey to bring this story to life is just as transformative as the book itself, intertwining creativity with passion, perseverance and inspiration.
The narrative: about Lies We Tell About The Stars
Set in a near-future San Francsico, Celeste and Nicky are best friends. It’s almost like their friendship was written in the stars. They share everything — secrets, their birthday, matching tattoos, and a fascination for space, especially with the upcoming Mars mission. But when the Big One hits, Nicky is nowhere to be found. Time passes, and everyone thinks the worst – except Celeste. She knows he had plans to disappear, but will anyone believe her? Should she even share the reasons he wanted to vanish?
Only one person seems to understand, the mysterious but all-to-handsome Meo. With Nicky’s notebook to turn to, Celeste searches for clues with Meo, navigates the aftermath of a tragedy (with a chronic illness), and discovers more about herself through grief, love, and possibility.
The nightcap
In the spirit of exploration and self-discovery, Susie’s suggested nightcap for Lies We Tell About The Stars is the cocktail she invented to go along with her book launch! We’re making a variation of the Dark ‘n Stormy called the “Dark and Starry.” We swapped out the rum for bourbon, topped with ginger beer, a hint of mint, and a splash of lemon juice. And since we like to extend the connections, the bourbon serves as a mirror for the raw, dark backdrop, while the ginger beer brings a vibrant balance to represent new discoveries and unexpected friendships. With a hint of zesty lemon, Celeste’s honest voice and strength are captured, and the refreshing mint reminds of starry nights, wonder, and endless possibilities.
In the episode
Get to know Susie in this episode of Narratives & Nightcaps. We chat about:
Her lifelong dream turned reality — Susie reflects on the past couple of months since the release of her debut book and what it’s like to see her story out in the world.
The perspectives that enrich her writing and YA voices, creating relatable characters and emotions.
Storytelling as a tool that transcends age and experience. We talk about why stories matter in our lives, how we can explore complex emotions and situations, and the power books have to foster empathy and understanding.
Plus being “casual space nerds,” Susie’s own experiences in the 1989 San Francisco earthquake, and insight into her experiences as a school librarian.
Throughout her debut novel, in her role as a school librarian, and with her passion for storytelling, Susie exemplifies the profound impact of literature on our lives. Whether you’re a young reader, a book lover of any age, a writer, or someone seeking connection, her journey and Lies We Tell About The Stars remind us that stories are the best bridges to understanding, imagination, and hope.
Listen to the full author interview on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Purchase your copy here.
Connect with Susie!