Newfoundland author has publishing in his blood
Nick Cranford has the people of Newfoundland and Labrador searching — for words, that is.
A graduate of College of the North Atlantic’s (CNA) Business Administration (Marketing) diploma program, Cranford began creating puzzles in 2020 as a way of occupying himself during a major storm that ground activity in St. John’s to a halt.
Working with Flanker Press, Cranford published his first of six, word search books in 2023.
“It was one of the best feelings in the world getting published,” he said.
The author finds inspiration for his books from his great-grandmother.
“I got the idea to make the Newfoundland Word Search from my late Great Nan,” he said. “She used to do word searches every single day. It was one of her favourite pastimes and a great comfort to her when she was undergoing cancer treatments.”
His inspiration also feeds off those with creativity and determination.
“I’m inspired by someone who has an idea in their head that they want to offer to the world, and they make it into reality.”
Born and raised in St. John’s, Cranford comes by his love of the written word honestly. His grandfather, Garry Cranford, is the president of Flanker Press, and his father, Jerry Cranford, is a publisher.
With almost two years as a published author, Cranford says each book has its own unique timeline.
“Usually, the time varies depending on the project,” he said. “In most cases, it’s a couple of months from idea to finished product on the shelves.”
Currently working at Flanker Press as a sales and marketing representative, Cranford says CNA was a good fit for him as it offered flexibility in his program delivery.
“I did the course online and took my exams at Prince Philip Drive campus,” he said. “It’s a great foundation to learn the basics of business.”
When he’s not working or writing his next book, Cranford turns to the great outdoors.
“My favourite hobbies are going on the side-by-side, being at my cabin, and outdoor activities like fishing and hunting,” he said.
Excited to expand his popular puzzle series, he added:
“My next word search books are the Music & Friends and Restaurants editions of the Word Search of Newfoundland and Labrador,” he said. “Expect plenty more word search books from me, as well as ones that cover other provinces across the country.”
For more information, visit www.flankerpress.com/author/nick-cranford.
