Today we’d like to introduce you to Selena Alston
Selena, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been writing since the 7th grade, and while I always knew I would become a writer, I initially imagined it would be through novels. However, fiction writing turned out to be more daunting and extensive than I had expected.
In high school, I took three years of journalism, convinced I would be the next Tanya Weathersbee. After graduation, I landed an internship with The Florida Star, the oldest African American newspaper. My role mainly involved writing crime summaries. It didn’t take long to realize that print journalism wasn’t for me—the rigid rules didn’t give me the freedom to write what I wanted.
At one point, someone told me that if I didn’t use the gifts God gave me, they would be taken away. This, combined with a lack of self-worth in my 20s and 30s, led me to step away from writing as a professional pursuit. I believed, wrongly, that my gift had been taken from me. But looking back, I see that I simply hadn’t found my place yet.
As a child, I loved creating. I would write encouraging notes and make greeting cards for family and friends. I carried that passion into adulthood, continuing to use my gift in my own way by making heartfelt cards.
During the pandemic, I found the courage to start a blog. I introduced myself as a quirky 34-year-old virgin, sharing my struggles with self-confidence and feeling stuck. To my surprise, the blog was well-received. That experience helped me discover that I had a voice worth sharing.
Around the same time, I joined the Author’s Success Society, which held me accountable and encouraged me to take the leap into starting my own publishing company, Sparkle Creatives Publishing. With their support, I published my first book, Sparklerella: A Story About Fashion and Courage. The society’s encouragement was invaluable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better support system.
My book became a symbol of freedom and creativity during a period when I felt lost and uncertain about my future. It ultimately saved me when I was in a state of personal oppression, unsure of where life was leading me.
In my 20s and 30s, I had a poor mindset. I couldn’t see a clear path forward and believed that because I hadn’t stewarded my gift properly, I was of no use. Now, I realize the importance of reading and interpreting God’s word for myself. I’ve come to understand that my gift was never truly taken from me—I just wasn’t ready to fully embrace it. That clarity, along with the courage I gained during the pandemic, reignited my passion for writing, and I’m grateful I found my voice again.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth road? Ha! My first challenge was believing in myself and trusting that my work could make a difference. The phrase “the mind is a battlefield” is an understatement. Imagine writing a book about confidence and resilience when you’re struggling to find those very things within yourself. It felt ironic, to say the least.
Then came the writing process itself—what a wild and daunting journey. The only professional writing I had done was back in high school. I ended up writing at least seven different versions of my book, and to be honest, they all felt terrible! I even threw in the towel a few times. But thankfully, I had an amazing editor who pushed me, stretched me, and made me better. It was revision after revision. Sometimes, I didn’t mind—I’ve always had a bit of a perfectionist streak.
I also found an incredible illustrator, but then, unfortunately, we couldn’t work together. I was devastated. The search for someone else felt endless and draining. However, everything eventually worked out because I was able to reconnect with my original illustrator—such a relief!
Through all of this, I realized something important: I don’t like being challenged. I tend to be a bit dramatic, where even small hurdles can feel like the end of the world. I’d find myself asking, “Lord, why?” But looking back, I value the growth that comes from facing challenges. After all, without them, life wouldn’t be life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an author, my book Sparklerella: A Story About Fashion and Courage showcases my creativity and passion for inspiring others. Sparklerella isn’t just a character; she’s a reflection of my artistic vision, blending fashion, sparkle, and bravery. Through her story, I express my love for art and my commitment to encouraging young readers to believe in themselves.
Writing Sparklerella’s story allowed me to share a message of courage and resilience—values that mirror my own journey. This personal connection adds authenticity to my work, making it relatable and impactful for readers.
My goal is to create work that not only entertains but also empowers. Sparklerella is a testament to my belief that creativity has the power to transform lives. By encouraging young girls to embrace their individuality and chase their dreams, I hope to inspire them to live boldly and confidently.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Always define your “why.” It will help safeguard you against frustrations along the way. You will encounter many obstacles, but your “why” will keep you focused and motivated. Ask yourself: is your reason for doing what you do strong enough to carry your dream to fruition? Your “why” should inspire others, showing them that they, too, can achieve their dreams or pursue their passions because you did it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sparklecreativespublishing.com/
- Instagram: Selena.Alston.7
- Facebook: Selena Alston
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/Sparklerella-Story-about-Fashion-Courage/dp/B0BSWM6GWL/
Image Credits
Photos by lionoflorida
