Interview with Lauren Spieller for She's The Worst
She's the Worst
by Lauren SpiellerPublisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young
Release Date: September 3rd 2019
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
Synopsis:
Sisters April and Jenn haven’t been close in years. Jenn’s too busy with school, the family antique shop, and her boyfriend, and April would rather play soccer and hang out with the boy next door.
But when April notices her older sister is sad about staying home for college, she decides to do something about it. The girls set off to revive a pact they made as kids: spend an epic day exploring the greatest hits of their childhood and all that Los Angeles has to offer.
Then April learns that Jenn has been keeping a secret that could rip their family—and their feuding parents—apart. With only one day to set things right, the sisters must decide if their relationship is worth saving, or if the truth will tear them apart for good.
Can you briefly describe SHE’S THE WORST and the characters?
SHE’S THE WORST is the story of two sisters—16YO April and 18YO Jenn—who have grown up in sunny L.A. They used to be close, but in recent years they’ve grown apart. Now, Jenn is about to start college, which inspires April to arrange a fun day of activities for them to do together before Jenn becomes too busy to spend time with her younger sister. But when secrets come out, the girls have to decide if their relationship can withstand the truth.
Who would you say is your favourite character from the story and why?
That’s like choosing a favorite child! April was the most fun to write because she’s impulsive and funny, but I actually have a soft spot for stressed out and well-meaning big sister Jenn.
How did the story occur to you? Did you find inspiration anywhere?
I have a sister I’m very close to, so I thought it would be fun to write a story that reminded me of her and of growing up (though she and I don’t have the kind of drama-filled relationship that April and Jenn have). Plus I’m from L.A., so it was a natural place to set SHE’S THE WORST.
If you could choose one song to describe your book, which one would it be?
Even though Jenn and April aren’t twins, I’ve gotta go with the theme song from Sister, Sister.
Sister, sister
Never knew how much I missed ya
Now that everybody knows
I ain't ever gonna let you go
If your book was going to be made into a movie, who would play your characters?
I’d love to see someone like Hailee Steinfeld play April, because she’s adorable, and I think Katherine Langford would make a great Jenn.
Fall is here and we love to go out and enjoy the sun. What drink and place do you think will go with your book to have a perfect book date?
I recommend taking advantage of those last summer rays by reading this book outside with a glass of iced tea.
Can you recommend your readers any other books in case they are left hungry for more once they finish SHE’S THE WORST?
Definitely IF I’M BEING HONEST by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka, since it’s also set in L.A., and I’d also suggest checking out my first book, YOUR DESTINATION IS ON THE LEFT.
What’s next for you?
I’m still brainstorming for now, but whatever I do next, it’ll probably involve fun kissing scenes, secrets, and a sun filled afternoon :)
Lauren Spieller is an author and literary agent who lives in New York with her husband. When she isn’t writing, she can be found drinking lattes, pining for every dog she sees, or visiting her native California. She is the author of Your Destination is on the Left and She’s the Worst. Follow her on Twitter @laurenspieller and Instagram @laurenspieller. You can also visit her website at www.laurenspieller.com
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