Shandley began her first “novel” at age 10. Her biggest (and only) fan was her younger sister who constantly begged her to finish the next chapter of her suspenseful tween thriller. Unfortunately for her and the cliff-hanging protagonist named Beau, Shandley decided to pursue more realistic stories about community events. She interviewed family members, friends and anyone else who was willing to talk. She had decided to become a journalist.

Over the past 25+ years, Shandley made that dream a reality, writing articles for top magazines like Chatelaine, InBetween, Time Out New York Kids, Parents Canada and Today's Parent. She's also contributed stories to online sites like AKA Mom, chatelaine.com, macleans.ca,  todaysparent.com, Islands, Explore, TheTravel, and PlanetWare.

In her spare time, Shandley has penned multiple books including: Managing Stress & Anxiety (Belvoir Media Group) , Hey Baby! What's Your Name? A Canadian Guide to Naming Your Baby (John Wiley and Sons), On The Reef and Under Your Nose (co-authored with her mother, Judith McMurray and published by Firefly Books).