Joan Lowery Nixon, born February 3, 1927, was an American journalist and author known for her extensive work in children's and young adult literature, particularly in the genres of historical fiction and mysteries. After earning a journalism degree from the University of Southern California, where she met her husband Hershell, she taught school before beginning her writing career. Her first children's book was published in 1964. Nixon authored over 140 books throughout her career. She also collaborated with her husband, a geologist, on several science books. Nixon's contributions to the mystery genre were recognized with multiple awards, including four Edgar Allan Poe Awards from the Mystery Writers of America, more than any other author. Her work also received accolades such as the California Young Reader Medal and the Western Writers of America's Golden Spur Award. One of her novels was adapted into a television movie. Nixon passed away from pancreatic cancer in Houston on June 28, 2003.

Joan Lowery Nixon was born in Los Angeles, California, on February 3, 1927. She pursued higher education at the University of Southern California, where she obtained a degree in journalism in 1947. During her time at USC, she met Hershell, who would become her husband; he was a United States Navy officer and a geologist. Nixon was also an active member of the Kappa Delta sorority at USC. Before starting her family, she worked as a school teacher in Los Angeles.

Nixon began her prolific writing career with the publication of her first children's book, "The Mystery of Hurricane Castle," in 1964. She went on to write more than 140 books, primarily focusing on historical fiction and mystery novels for young readers. In addition to her solo work, she co-authored several science books with her husband. Her significant contributions to the mystery genre earned her widespread recognition, including four Edgar Allan Poe Awards from the Mystery Writers of America, a distinction no other author had achieved. She also received five additional Edgar nominations. Further accolades included two California Young Reader Medals, two Golden Spur Awards from Western Writers of America, and an award from the Texas Institute of Letters. Her book "Land of Hope" has been utilized in middle school curricula.

Joan Lowery Nixon lived with her husband and children in various locations before settling in Houston, Texas. Her son, Joe Nixon, became a lawyer and later served as a Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives. Nixon's novel "The Other Side of Dark" was adapted into the 1995 television movie "Awake To Danger." She passed away in Houston on June 28, 2003, due to pancreatic cancer. Her extensive body of work continues to be recognized and read by young audiences.