Susan Lieu Books In Order

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

About Susan Lieu

Susan Lieu stands out as a Vietnamese-American author, playwright, and performer with a knack for telling unforgettable stories. Her dedication to writing shines through as she crafts narratives that captivate and entertain readers. Her talent lies in her ability to create characters who resonate deeply with audiences, striking a balance between relatability and depth. Lieu’s work is recognized for weaving engaging and compelling tale lines, blending cultural experiences with universal themes.

Her strength as a writer lies in her capacity to develop protagonists whom audiences find both compelling and memorable. Through careful characterization, she manages to breathe life into each role, making them vivid and distinct. Her gift enhances the writing experience, ensuring readers connect with the narrative on a personal level. Lieu’s writing doesn’t just tell stories; it invites readers on a journey that challenges, entertains, and sometimes reflects their own experiences.

In crafting narratives, Susan Lieu demonstrates an exceptional ability to maintain reader engagement from the first page to the last. Her storytelling is marked by intricate plots that seamlessly combine personal and broader cultural themes, resulting in universally appealing real-life tales. The entertainment value of her stories stems from this skillful narrative construction, which keeps audiences eagerly turning pages. With Lieu’s prowess, each story becomes more than just words on a page—it transforms into an immersive experience.

Susan Lieu uses her own life experiences to write stories that are genuine and relatable, engaging readers from around the globe. She draws on personal events and cultural heritage to create narratives that feel authentic. By sharing her own journey, Lieu connects with a diverse audience, making her stories accessible and meaningful to people from various backgrounds. Her distinctive style and sincerity in storytelling ensure that readers find a piece of their own story within hers.

Lieu’s ability to entertain is rooted in how she translates personal experiences into universal themes that resonate with audiences worldwide. Her work combines humor, emotional depth, and cultural insights, making for an engaging reading experience. Through her unique perspective, she showcases the richness of Vietnamese culture while also touching upon common human experiences. This blend of personal authenticity and universal appeal is what makes her stories stay with readers long after they finish.

By writing from the heart, Susan Lieu invites readers into her world, offering tales that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her authenticity allows for deep emotional engagement, as readers appreciate the honesty and vulnerability expressed in her narratives. This approach not only entertains but also fosters understanding and empathy, creating a connection that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. Lieu’s storytelling transforms her personal history into a shared reader experience.

Looking ahead, Susan Lieu promises to continue captivating audiences with her unique storytelling. Her dedication to crafting meaningful narratives suggests that many more engaging stories are on the horizon. As she draws on her rich experiences and cultural background, readers can anticipate future works that will entertain and resonate. Lieu’s journey as an author is only just beginning, and there’s much excitement about what she will share next.

Early and Personal Life

Susan Lieu is a vibrant Vietnamese-American author, playwright, and performer known for unforgettable storytelling. Raised by nail salon workers, she learned perseverance early on, which she channels into her acclaimed solo show, ‘140 LBS: How Beauty Killed My Mother,’ praised by the L.A. Times and NPR.

Her inspiration comes from personal experiences, as seen in her sequel, ‘Over 140 LBS,’ premiered when she was eight months pregnant at ACT Theatre’s SoloFest. Within a year, she held 60 performances for well over 7,000 people, earning widespread recognition. Her acclaimed work has been showcased at significant events, including Wing Luke Museum and The World Economic Forum.

Susan Lieu speaks at top universities like Harvard and UCLA and companies, including Google and Salesforce. Educated at Harvard College and Yale School of Management, she further developed her craft through artist residencies. Living in Seattle with her family, Lieu enjoys mushroom hunting and family gatherings, enriching her storytelling journey.

Writing Career

Susan Lieu’s writing career took a significant leap with her debut memoir, ‘The Manicurist’s Daughter.’ The book was selected as an Apple Book of the Month and was highlighted by Elle Magazine and Goodreads as a most anticipated 2024 read. Featured by major media outlets such as The New York Times and NPR Books, it has received high praise, including from V (formerly Eve Ensler), who called it a “stunning, raw, brave memoir.”

In addition to her memoir, Lieu is actively involved in various projects that complement her writing journey. She co-hosts The Model Minority Moms podcast, where she discusses relevant cultural topics. As a board member of Asylum Access, she supports international advocacy, and her collaboration with Consumer Watchdog led to significant legal changes benefiting low-income BIPOC women. Lieu also co-founded Socola Chocolatier with her sister, blending creativity and entrepreneurship. Her career continues to expand, promising more impactful work in the future.

The Manicurist’s Daughter

‘The Manicurist’s Daughter,’ a nonfiction memoir by Susan Lieu, was published on March 12, 2024. Released by Celadon Books, it was instantly a hit with the public and critics alike. This memoir joins their noted collection, marking a significant contribution to contemporary nonfiction.

Here Susan Lieu explores her family’s past and her own future after fleeing the Vietnam War to California in the 1980s. Her mother became the family’s guiding force, establishing successful nail salons until she died from a botched tummy tuck when Susan was eleven. The family imposed silence on discussing her mother’s death, leaving Susan with unanswered questions for two decades.

Through researching legal documents and speaking with spirit channelers, Susan uncovers the truth about her mother’s life, the circumstances surrounding her death, and societal beauty standards.

This memoir offers readers a compelling journey into Susan Lieu’s poignant exploration of her family’s history and her personal quest for answers. With an engaging narrative, the memoir beautifully illustrates resilience and the pursuit of truth. Lieu’s storytelling captivates, making it a noteworthy read for anyone intrigued by heartfelt, true-life stories. This book is an enriching experience for those seeking depth and insight.