Miriam MacDonald, local poet and educator, thinks the beginning of the tourist season is perfect timing to launch her debut poetry collection inspired by life on Cape Breton’s unspoiled shores. Written under the name Miriam Dunn, “Who Will Love the Crow” is an eclectic mix of poetry styles and subject matter featuring the photography of her daughter, Olivia Ellen MacDonald.

“Cape Breton holds a lot of charm for visitors and residents, alike. People are captivated the beautiful places, people, art and music that originate here. But my book is not distinctly ‘Maritime’. I don’t think the collection betrays a particular place or heritage. I think the themes are universal, although the works are very much influenced by the natural surroundings”.

Published by Winter Goose Publishing out of New Hampshire, a press founded in 2011, they focus on books “written with heart”.
“This really is from the heart, and I am even more proud to be featuring the photographs of my daughter. Her art often inspires mine.” The black and white photography complements the text, adding another layer of meaning to explore.

“ They perfectly match the mood of the anthology: they are stark, rich, witty, and touching.”, says author Lynn Hardaker.
MacDonald earned a teaching degree from Memorial University in Newfoundland and an additional elementary endorsement from Cape Breton University.

“As a substitute, I teach all grades and subjects, but I get particularly excited on those days we get to talk about poetry or make poetry together. I think they can feel my passion.” MacDonald hopes to be supported by local schools by having her book stocked in their libraries. “It would be wonderful if some of my poetry were shared with students. I wouldn’t even mind a critique” she jokes.

MacDonald has had poetry and prose published in previous anthologies. Who Will Love the Crow is her first solo collection and is available on Amazon.ca or wherever books are sold.