The Girl Who Couldn’t Lie: An Interview with Author Radhika Sanghani
What if you always had to tell the truth? Author Radhika Sanghani explores this question in the humorous and heartfelt middle grade novel The Girl Who Couldn’t Lie. Priya frequently bends the truth to keep her friends, family, and gymnastics coach happy. But when she gets her beloved late grandmother’s bangle stuck on her wrist, she finds herself incapable of telling a lie.
Today Radhika joins us to share the inspiration behind the story, her favorite characters, and more. Keep reading to find a free downloadable discussion guide!
What was your inspiration for the book?
I used to be a people-pleaser who lied all the time, but a couple of years ago I decided to stop lying—even white lies. It’s made my life so much better and I thought it would be really fun to use that as inspiration for a children’s book . . . where the character is FORCED to stop lying! I came up with the idea of magic bangle because growing up I used to love playing with my grandma’s jewelry, and bangles are a big part of Indian culture.
What do you hope readers take from the story?
I hope that readers are inspired to consider being more truthful with the people they love. I really do think that when we open up in an honest way, we connect so much more to people and can create stronger relationships.
Which character do you love most?
I love Priya’s best friends, Sami and Mei. Sami was so fun to write because she’s so theatrical and dramatic, and I always knew what she’d say. Mei is much more reserved and cynical, but funny in her own way. I love how loyal and loving they are—they’re the dream best friends!
What were your favorite parts to write?
I really enjoyed writing the scenes with Priya and her bully, Katie. It’s always fun to write mean characters, especially when you get to see them open up later and be more vulnerable and honest!
What means the most to you about this book?
Growing up, I never read a book where the characters looked like me. So I’m so glad that new young readers—especially girls from South Asian backgrounds—will be able to see themselves in this book. It’s really important to me to be representative with my writing, and I hope everyone who reads this will find someone they relate to!
Praise for The Girl Who Couldn’t Lie
“Sanghani’s charmed take on radical honesty tackles how damaging family secrets can be and the value of finding your voice.”—Booklist
“A delightful emotional journey enhanced with a touch of magic.”—Kirkus Reviews
“With the humor and pain that accompanies forced truth-telling, this book explores deeper familial, friendship, self-care, and cultural issues in a fun page-turner.”—School Library Journal
Free Educator Resources
Encourage critical thinking in the classroom and beyond with this free discussion guide! You can also download this resource from the Lerner website.
Connect with the Author
Radhika Sanghani is an award-winning features journalist, an influential body positivity campaigner, and a 2020 BBC Writers Room graduate. She has published several novels for adults and is currently developing her own children’s TV show with BBC Studios and CBBC. She is also a yoga teacher and runs a charity initiative with AgeUK to fight loneliness in older women.
Photo Credit: S.E.B.C. Photography
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