Welcome! I’m Sarah Selecky, and I’m delighted you’ve found your way here. As an author, teacher, and creative coach, I’ve dedicated my life to the art of bringing sensory experiences to life through words and helping others discover the joy and power of creative writing.
I believe we live in and through stories, and that this is how we understand and create meaning in our lives.
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My debut collection, This Cake Is for the Party, was a finalist for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and the Commonwealth Prize for Best First Book in Canada and the Caribbean. It was also longlisted for the Frank O'Connor Prize.The New York Times called the stories “utterly fascinating.” You can find my writing in The Walrus, ELLE Canada, Fashion Magazine, and a variety of newspapers and magazines.
My novel, Radiant Shimmering Light has been embraced by readers across Canada, the US, Poland, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. It's been described as “killer satire... [and] a funny, tender, gimlet-eyed dive into the cult of self-improvement” (Kirkus Reviews). The novel was optioned by Amy Adams for a premium one-hour television series with HBO.
My latest book, Story Is a State of Mind: Writing and the Art of Creative Curiosity, distills two decades of teaching experience into a guide that helps writers integrate their intellect and intuition to create a meaningful and beautiful writing life.
In my writing school, we teach writers how to write in a whole-minded state with presence and precision, in the service of great writing and transformative storytelling.
As a certified hypnotherapist and coach in Time Line Therapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, I offer personalized mentorship to help writers become the authors of their own lives, transforming their creative process into one of choice and presence rather than resistance and struggle. This mindful approach connects writers to a more joyful, effortless relationship with their craft.
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In 2011, I founded the Sarah Selecky Writing School, which has blossomed into a vibrant creative community for thousands of writers from around the world. Our school is built on the belief that writing can be a transformative practice—one that allows us to explore our deepest selves and connect with others in profound ways.
At the heart of our teaching philosophy is the integration of craft and contemplative practice. We guide writers to achieve mastery while nurturing their spirit, helping them put writing at the centre of their lives and focus on creating work they truly want to read.
Our graduates go on to publish books, win awards, and achieve all kinds of creative and professional success.
My Approach to Teaching and Mentoring
With over 20 years of experience in transforming writers’ creative practices, I’ve developed a unique approach that honours both intellect and intuition. I believe in the power of creative curiosity and whole-minded writing to unlock our potential as storytellers and human beings.
Whether I’m leading workshops, working one-to-one with writers in my coaching practice, hosting conversations for our Centered members, writing articles for my blog. or recording episodes for Sarah Selecky Audio, my goal is always the same: to create a space where creativity can flourish and writers can connect with their innate curiosity.
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Beyond Writing
When I’m not writing or teaching, you might find me making art and observing nature, creating writing playlists, reading voraciously across genres and disciplines, contemplating how we can create the culture we want to live in, and advising teachers, founders, writers, leaders, and artists on how to break through creative blocks.
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Let’s Connect
I’m always eager to engage with fellow creatives and curious minds, and I love to explore other spaces that highlight creativity and connection. Whether you’re interested in joining our writing school, inviting me to appear at an event, or simply want to share your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you.
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I am represented by Samantha Haywood of Transatlantic Agency.
I love receiving handwritten letters in the mail. Please send here:
P.O. Box #6271, Picton, ON, K0K 2T0, Canada
Email: My inbox is often full and it's usually beyond my capacity to reply to email quickly. If you have something important to ask or share with me, please contact support@sarahselecky.com. You’ll get a response from me or my assistant in a few business days.
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