Picture a witty storyteller who swapped newsroom deadlines for the whimsical world of young adult fiction—meet Amanda Sellet! This Gen X ex-journalist turned author has carved a niche with her clever blend of classic literature and modern teen drama, enchanting readers with her debut novel, By the Book. With a knack for humor and heartfelt coming-of-age tales, Sellet’s stories are like a cozy cup of tea spiked with sharp banter.
From her Kansas home, where she lives with her archaeologist husband and family, Sellet crafts narratives that resonate with bookworms and rom-com lovers alike. Her work doesn’t just entertain—it invites readers to laugh, reflect, and embrace their authentic selves. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this rising star in YA literature.
The Making of Amanda Sellet
Born and raised in the United States, Amanda Sellet’s love for storytelling bloomed early, fueled by a childhood steeped in classic novels, old movies, and Masterpiece Theatre. As the eldest of five siblings, she often escaped into books or pretended to be Princess Leia, hinting at the imaginative spark that would later define her writing. With a B.A. in Literature from New College of Florida and an M.A. in Cinema Studies from NYU, Sellet honed her craft before spending a decade as a journalist, covering theater, music, and movies. This eclectic background—blending literary analysis with pop culture—laid the foundation for her transition to fiction, where she channels her love for witty dialogue and smart heroines.
Amanda Sellet’s Unforgettable Stories
Sellet burst onto the YA scene in 2020 with By the Book, a charming rom-com that follows Mary Porter-Malcolm, a teen bookworm navigating high school with a playbook of 19th-century literary wisdom. Praised for its humor and social commentary, the novel weaves Austen-esque insights with modern-day mishaps, earning accolades for its quirky narrator and organic romance. Her 2022 release, Belittled Women, takes a subversive spin on Louisa May Alcott’s classic, following Jo Porter as she rebels against her family’s Little Women-themed tourist attraction. This sharp, messy tale showcases Sellet’s knack for blending satire with heartfelt growth.
In 2024, Sellet ventured into adult fiction with Hate to Fake It to You, a screwball comedy about a waitress posing as an influencer, packed with banter and romantic chaos. Her upcoming 2025 release, a rom-com involving secrets and a cross-country chase, promises more of her signature wit. Sellet’s style—rich with literary nods, subtle humor, and themes of self-discovery—makes her stories a delightful bridge between classic and contemporary, appealing to readers who crave both intellect and heart.
Why Amanda Sellet Matters
Amanda Sellet’s impact lies in her ability to make literature feel alive and accessible for young readers. By infusing classic tropes with modern flair, she encourages teens to embrace their quirks and navigate life’s complexities with courage. Her stories champion authentic friendships and personal growth, delivering messages that resonate especially with young women. Though her bibliography is still growing, Sellet’s fresh voice and comedic lens have earned her a loyal following, positioning her as a vibrant force in YA and beyond.
- Key Works: By the Book (2020), Belittled Women (2022), Hate to Fake It to You (2024)
- Hometown: Kansas, USA
- Fun Fact: Her husband’s French heritage means her last name is pronounced with a silent ‘t’!
Snag By the Book or Belittled Women and dive into Amanda Sellet’s witty, heartwarming world—perfect for anyone who loves a smart story with a side of laughter!