Summer Stride

Author: Nina Schuyler, Afterword

How a Non-Techie Learned to Write a Novel about Artificial Intelligence
Tuesday, 7/21/2026
6:00 - 7:00
Merced General Floor Area
Merced

155 Winston Drive
San Francisco, CA 94132
United States

415-355-2825

Explore how artificial intelligence can shape storytelling and human connection through the lens of fiction writing. Author Nina Schuyler shares her journey into understanding AI—from early encounters with lifelike robots to in-depth research with experts and chatbots—and how it informed her novel Afterword, about a pioneering scientist who resurrects the voice of her beloved. Learn about the books, interviews and technologies that influenced her work, and take part in a discussion about the creative and ethical possibilities of AI.

Nina Schuyler is the author of Afterword, an award-winning novel that explores artificial intelligence and human relationships. Her latest book, In This Ravishing World (2024), won the 2025 PEN Oakland–Josephine Miles Literary Award and reflects her ongoing engagement with timely social and environmental themes. A longtime creative writing instructor, she taught for 17 years in the University of San Francisco’s MFA program and now teaches at Stanford Continuing Studies, bringing both research and storytelling expertise to conversations about writing and emerging technologies.

Check out books by Nina Schuyler at SFPL 

Author Readings & Lectures

Engage with your favorite writers and discover your next read.

Summer Stride

Summer Stride is the Library's annual summer learning, reading and exploration program for all ages and abilities. Read and learn with the Library all summer long.

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

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The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.