I write about survival and strength and slippery truths.
I write about the hard ways to love, and the easy ones.
I write to cage the shadows.

Excited to announce that my unpublished novel “Fault Lines” has been shortlisted for the 2025 Guernica Prize for Literary Fiction. Congratulations to all the other finalists! The prize includes a publication contract with Guernica Editions, announced at an event in Toronto on December 7th.

Stay tuned!

Meet Shirley

Shirley Hay is an emerging author from the flatlands of the Canadian prairies. Her writing is informed by a background in psychology and family support, including neurodiverse children and those with mental health concerns. Her writing has been published in various anthologies and magazines, including Vine Leaves Press, Another Chance to Get it Right: A New Year’s Eve Anthology, Creation: A Literary Magazine, Off Topic Publishing, and has been featured on various podcasts. She is currently pursuing publication for her debut novel, Fault Lines. Shirley lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba with her family.

  • "I always love a 'rising from the ashes' style story, and this one is that and then some. It's exquisitely written, heartbreakingly sad, and full of hope."

    Praise for Righting My World —Desi Stowe, author of Done and Shadows

  • “I hope to see your work in libraries everywhere in the not too distant future, because it's that good.”

    Praise for The Commission — Megan, Reader

  • "Beautiful writing."

    Praise for Kissed by a Fish — Gayle Nemeth, author of The Blizzard

  • "The story tugs on your heartstrings and makes you hopeful at the same time."

    Praise for Righting My World —Eliza Vaccaro, author of Winter: A Short Story

  • "I love the way you take us through your experience."

    Praise for Kissed by a Fish — Kirk, Reader