N. J. is a dynamic speaker with an amazing true story of how an ugly duckling realized she was actually a swan; and the the award-winning creator of the Manziuk and Ryan mystery series, the Circle of Friends series, the stand-alone novel In Time of Trouble, three nonfiction books for teens, and a myriad of other items including columns, profiles, articles and a Christmas play. (See Books)
Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, N. J. was raised in several small towns in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. An only child who was so quiet her grade 11 homeroom teacher advised her parents to talk her out of her dream of being a teacher, she became a high school Teacher of the Year in Roblin, Manitoba.
Since her marriage to Les Lindquist (from Swift Current, SK,) she's lived in Regina, Calgary, Mississauga and Markham, Ontario. She has been part of two church planting teams, a writer and editor, a homeschooling pioneer, and many other things. She is currently a speaker, author, and mentor.
N. J.'s speaking and writing is driven by her love for justice, her abhorrence of the belief that one person is better than another, her sadness at man's inhumanity to man, her desire to help people better themselves, and her faith that, no matter how bad things might get, there is a Creator who is ultimately in control, and it is possible to have a relationship with him.
In September of 2001, N. J. realized that because of the American domination for the Christian publishing industry, there was a very real need for a Canadian association for writers with a Christian world view. Her vision led to the founding of The Word Guild in December of 2001. She served as Executive Director until December 31, 2008. She continues as Director of Write! Canada.
N. J. is also a member of numerous other writers and speakers associations, including the Writers Union of Canada, Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Canada, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.
