Lana de Bastiani, M.Ed.
Founder and CEO
Northern Special Books (NSB) is transitioning to Northern Quill Publishing (NQP) while remaining the children’s book imprint for NQP. Founded by Lana de Bastiani, M.Ed., NSB has evolved from a solo venture into the NWT’s first hybrid publishing house with the help of Amber Henry, Judith Drinan, Myranda Bolstad, and Rachel VanderVeen.
Lana began writing children's books during her master's in education, with her first book, The Fox and My Boot, inspired by a fox stealing her boot, becoming a bestseller. Her second book, Nick the Northern Special, co-authored with Megan Cooper, features their dogs.
In 2022, Lana launched NSB to promote Canadian literature, focusing on stories set in the Northwest Territories. NSB books are available at various local retailers in Yellowknife, the NWT, the Yukon, and on NQP’s website.
What readers are saying about our books
“Again, again!
“I’d like to read that book!”
- William, Age 4
- Aubrey, Age 3
“The Fox and My Boot is one of my all time favourite children’s books because it’s magic and fun, and it reminds me that great literature pours light into your heart every time you read it.”
Lana de Bastiani and Janey Pacey, mahsi for creating a book that makes me giggle every time I even think about it. I LOVE THIS BOOK!!”
- Richard Van Camp
“Lana’s first book is a favourite for us. Our son loves it because he recognizes the northern scenery and animals. The story is based on true events in our hometown, so he really engages with it because it really happened here (and because Lana has a gift and added a little magic and imagination!)”
- Linna Williams (mother and day care operator)