Jan A. Manon is an American author of fantasy, science fiction, and suspense stories and books. Hailing from Burlington, Vermont, Jan wrote and published her first book at the age of four. In 2026, Jan is working on her first fantasy novel, The Stowaway™. Driven by a passion for world-building and story, Jan is the founder of Happy Arctic Fox, and the founder of design and technology firm, Elf.
She is also a pilot, skier, designer, and software engineer. Currently, Jan is working on client solutions via Star Labs™, Elf’s R&D unit, and building business partnerships and investments. She is studying for the CFA exam. Jan is also a keen investor.
Work Experience & History >
Jan has been writing for clients since 1996. Previously, Jan worked as an editor at three publishing houses. Jan has created graphics, editorial content, and marketing campaigns for companies, studios, and universities for 30 years. A self-taught software engineer who has redesigned aeronautical and automotive interfaces for leading companies, Jan has designed apps and user interfaces for 18 years and written 17 books for clients, including a WSJ bestselling personal finance and investment book.
At 28, she founded her own company, Elf™. Elf™ provides design, apps and technology, digital, and audio (DADA™) services to businesses and the federal government. Today these services are offered with client solutions through Elf’s R&D unit, Star Labs™. Star Labs™ is also an incubator for Skye™, a stealth startup focused on developing zero-emission aircraft and drones. www.elf.agency
In addition to designing apps for every digital screen, Jan’s recent design work includes aviation and aerospace. A keen aviator, Jan’s love of flying has drawn her to designing airplanes, aeronautical elements, specialized aircraft equipment, and redesigning airport terminals and landing pads through Skye™.
Elf has a visual magazine, Hayden’s™ www.haydensm.com (9M audience worldwide), and an upcoming podcast, Stardust™ on Apple Podcasts. Stardust™ focuses on the craft of storytelling and features in-depth interviews with musicians, cinematographers, and directors.
Jan has her B.A. in philosophy and ecology from Emory University, where she initially studied pre-medicine. She also studied literature at Lincoln College at Oxford University and business at Stanford for a year.
Curiosity & A Love of Exploration >
In her downtime, Jan loves to linger over a good meal with loved ones, walk, hike, or ski, swim in the ocean, explore a new area, or play with friends and dogs. Jan enjoys spending time with family and many animal friends. She also enjoys yoga, reading, playing the piano, and gardening. On adventurous days, Jan takes a backcountry trip out west, goes to the beach, or heads to Schweiz, Norge, or Sverige for a change in scenery. She also loves catching a ball game or X Games in Aspen when she can. Coffee’s usually involved. Jan occasionally models for ski wear and modern apparel.
PRESS
For members of the press, please visit here.
PROJECTS
I love to collaborate on significant projects. Here’s a list of some ideas.
RIGHTS & LITERARY INQUIRIES
The manuscript for ‘The Stowaway’ is in development, nearing completion, and entering the submission phase. For all inquiries regarding domestic and international publishing rights, dramatic film/TV options, or interactive media and gaming distribution, please fill out the form below. Thank you. — Jan Manon