“The Secret Astronomers” by Jessica Walker
You have to see this one to truly appreciate it! Author and illustrator, Jessica Walker’s debut novel, The Secret Astronomers, is unlike any other book on your shelf. This epistolary novel is told in the form of sticky notes, margin annotations, and hand-drawn illustrations on the pages of 19th century astronomy textbook. Put together, The Secret Astronomers isn’t just a book — it’s an experience with every page you turn.
The narrative: about The Secret Astronomers
When a student who recently transferred to Green Bank High School in West Virgina starts a diary in an old textbook at the school’s library, the last thing she expects is a response. From there, it’s just the start of an unlikely friendship between two anonymous girls who couldn’t be more different. Together though, the two are determined to solve a Green Bank mystery. It’s a story of friendship, family, Appalachia, and the power of connection to bridge divides.
The nightcap
To pair perfectly with the season and the book, Kate recommends prosecco with splash of pomegranate juice! Or if you’re feeling you need something extra cozy, a peppermint mocha matches the mood as well.
In the episode of the Narratives & Nightcaps Podcast
Jessica shares the spark that first inspired this story
How she landed on the idea for the mixed-media format and her creative process to balance the layers of textbook text, illustrations, and the story
Exploring rural Appalachia and the National Radio Quiet Zone (one of the few places left in the U.S. with very limited radio and cell signals)
Finding creative confidence and her inspiring advice for other artists and writers
Listen to the full author interview on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts
Purchase your copy of THE SECRET ASTRONOMERS here (Narratives & Nightcaps is an Amazon Affiliate)
Connect with Jessica on Instagram!