SamiJo McQuiston

SamiJo is a first-class shenanigator, decorated coddiwompler, narrator, creator, and award-winning author. Among her works are "Abney Kelly & the Yuletide Shenanigans," a dark YA Fantasy steeped in Pagan lore, and "The Haunt," a brisk, witty tale about a witch running a haunted bookstore. She earned fourth place in Writer’s Digest’s prestigious annual writing competition for her short story "One Samhain Night." Additionally, her poem "The Bottom" appeared in Great Plains Medley, an anthology of prose and poetry by North Dakota writers.

Her passion for making the arts accessible led her to co-found the North Dakota Book and Arts Festival in Jamestown, North Dakota. Unlike most events, the festival never charges authors or artists for table space, and admission is free to all. By removing financial barriers, the festival ensures equal opportunities for artists and makes the arts accessible to everyone. She feels privileged to work with co-founders Jill Pfaff (Assistant Director/Outreach Librarian, James River Library System) and Aaron Cloyd (Professor, University of Jamestown) toward this mission.

SamiJo lives in North Dakota with her husband and a small menagerie. Most days, she’s at her keyboard creating new worlds and adventures. When she can, she curls up with a book and blanket, enjoys video games, or, if lucky, gathers with friends and family for Dungeons & Dragons.

Follow her on social media—she loves connecting with readers and writers. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and be part of her creative community. Your support means everything!