About the Author
Selin Senol-Akin is a distinguished writer, educator, and advocate, whose work spans across multiple genres, cultures and disciplines. Born in Istanbul and raised in New York City, Selin's multicultural background profoundly influences her literary and professional endeavors.
Literary Works
Selin is a rising literary voice whose work continues to captivate readers and critics alike. With a portfolio that spans emotional poetry and richly layered fiction, she has established herself as a bold and original storyteller. Her acclaimed semi-autobiographical series, The Catalyst Trilogy, unfolds primarily in Norway (where she resided for a while) and skillfully blends supernatural 'romantasy' with mystical mystery. The series has drawn significant attention for its nuanced exploration of identity, loneliness, friendships, biculturalism, generational trauma, and personal evolution—all told through an imaginative, genre-bending narrative.
Selin’s signature style is marked by emotional depth and sharp insight into the human condition, weaving stories around characters (who may not be entirely what they seem) and the “coincidences” that spark profound transformation. Her work doesn’t just tell a story—it invites readers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape and 'catalyze' our paths.
Awards & Recognition
The Catalyst received the prestigious 2022 International Readers’ Favorite Book Award, honoring outstanding contributions from both emerging indie authors and established writers. In 2025, Selin garnered further acclaim with an International Impact Book Award for The Elemental Collection, a powerful compilation of poetry fused with non-fiction essays, short stories and a play that have all moved and inspired readers across the globe.
In addition to her literary achievements, Selin has exhibited her framed poetic-work at various art shows and galleries, performed spoken poetry at numerous open-mic events and continues to hold book signings at local bookstores, connecting with readers and poetry-lovers alike.
Academic Contributions
Beyond her literary accomplishments, Selin has built a distinguished career as an adjunct professor in language education. She has taught and mentored students across multiple countries and age-groups, sharing her expertise with diverse and multicultural classrooms. Her academic and nonprofit work reflects a deep commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding and meaningful communication.
Advocacy & Activism
Passionately committed to human rights advocacy, with a strong focus on social justice and equality, Selin collaborates with both local and international organizations to champion policies addressing urgent global issues—including wrongful imprisonment, family separation, educational inequities, and the protection of free speech and expression. Her advocacy work profoundly shapes her writing, where themes of resilience, courage, and the enduring strength of those facing injustice take center stage.
Personal Life
Selin’s writing is deeply enriched by her life experiences shaped by a polarized Turkish-American upbringing and a personal and professional journey that spans continents. Her work offers a compelling window into the complexities of living between cultures, capturing both the struggles and the beauty of navigating multiple identities. At the heart of it all is her daughter, Dalya, whose presence brings an added layer of depth, love, and inspiration to Selin’s life and storytelling. Selin has also proudly included her little budding-artist's work in her books.
