Jonathan Friesen
Jonathan Friesen is an international speaker and award-winning author, whose personal experience with Tourette syndrome and epilepsy inspired him to write the highly acclaimed novel Jerk, California (Penguin, 2008), winner of the American Library Association’s 2009 Schneider Award—“Best Book for Teens,” and the coveted “Editor’s Choice” award. He has also received four Higher Goals EPA awards for his short stories. He’s the author of seven novels including Rush (Penguin, 2010) and The Last Martin (Zondervan/HarperCollins, 2011), both of which explore mental health issues. Now Aquifer (Blink/HarperCollins, 2013) his dystopian release, is earning rave reviews for a stunning portrayal of relational hope amidst chaos.
Biographical
Awards
- American Library Association 2009 Schneider Family Book Award
- Library Media Connection Editor's Choice Award
Links
Are you a teacher or administrator interested in transforming a school day into an unforgettable experience? Do you want your conferees to leave your event inspired? Consider inviting Jonathan to keynote your conference, speak at your school, or appear at your school/library event!
Whether you’re looking for a large group presenter, or a small group workshop leader, (or you have an entirely different need. . .surprise him!) invite Jonathan to your school or event and watch students and professionals alike respond to a message of hope and motivation described as “truly transformational!”
“Your energy, insight, and passion were eye-opening and restoring for the teachers and students. I know they were for me! The students were as inspired and grateful as I was!” (First Lady of Wisconsin, Jessica Doyle)
“I’ve never laughed and cried so much in one hour as when I first heard Jonathan speak. You are in for a treat!” (Dr. Sheldon Braaten, Ph.D.—Director, Behavioral Institute of Children and Adolescents)
“The inspiration you provided our staff, and most importantly the students, will stay with us! We all had only high praise for the morning’s assembly—your stories were a perfect mix to reach us adults, and the kids.” (The Staff of HLWW Middle School)
“I am spellbound!” (ESL Para/Teacher)
“Jonathan was engaging and brought me to tears more than once; his story is the story of my life, of my children’s life, and is the reason I entered this career. He was fabulous!” (Inclusion Specialist)
“You had a huge impact on my daughter during a time of early teen ups and downs! I appreciate your influence on her life.” (Parent)
“A powerful insight into the minds of those I see every day.” (Special Ed. Assistant)
“You touched so many lives with your stories, ideas, and personal experiences. Your presentations were the highlight of my school year!” (Media Specialist)
Target Audiences
- Conference Keynotes and Professional Presentations
- High School and Middle School Presentations
- Corporate Presentations
- School Visits and Staff Meetings
Signature Topics
- Literacy
- Mental Health
- Disability
- Diversity