Shelly Sanders is a Canadian-American historical fiction novelist whose works explore themes of trauma, resilience, and identity against the backdrop of pivotal historical events. Her critically acclaimed novel "Daughters of the Occupation" (HarperCollins, 2022), a Canadian bestseller, delves into intergenerational trauma stemming from the Latvian Holocaust, earning a starred review from "Kirkus" and praise from "The Washington Post" for its haunting portrayal of history’s enduring impact. Sanders also authored "The Night Sparrow" (2025), a World War II-era thriller inspired by true events, which follows a young Jewish sniper targeting Adolf Hitler. Her earlier trilogy—"Rachel’s Secret", "Rachel’s Promise", and "Rachel’s Hope" (Second Story Press)—draws from her grandmother’s escape from a Russian pogrom and migration to Shanghai, receiving starred reviews and recognition as Notable Books by the Sydney Taylor Book Awards.
Sanders’ writing is deeply rooted in personal and familial history, blending meticulous research with emotional depth. A former journalist, she contributed to prominent publications such as the "Toronto Star", "National Post", and "Maclean’s", covering diverse topics from social issues to human interest stories. Her transition to historical fiction was driven by a desire to uncover her Jewish heritage, revealed to her in adulthood, and to honor her grandmother’s unspoken legacy. Sanders’ works often juxtapose the brutality of history with moments of hope, reflecting her fascination with the resilience of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.
Educated at the University of Waterloo and Toronto Metropolitan University, Sanders credits her early love for historical fiction to Laura Ingalls Wilder’s "The Little House on the Prairie" series, which ignited her passion for immersive storytelling. Her novels have resonated with readers and critics alike for their authenticity and emotional resonance, cementing her reputation as a compelling voice in the genre. Sanders continues to write from her dual homes in Canada and the United States, weaving historical truths into narratives that bridge past and present.