J. Hugh MacDonald was born in Charlottetown, PEI. He graduated from St. Dunstan's University in 1968. He retired after teaching more than thirty-one years in June of 1999. He and his wife Sandra live in Brudenell, PEI beside the Montague River. They enjoy travel, especially to visit their five boys and their daughter, and four grandchildren, exploring the countryside on foot, and choral music. He was presented with the award for Distinguished Contribution to the Literary Arts in Prince Edward Island. He is current poet laureate for Prince Edward Island appointed by the Provincial Legislature.
Genre: Poetry, Fiction, Childrens' Picture Books
I have 31 years of classroom experience and am the father of five boys and one girl. My readings are dynamic and filled with fun. I give background to the stories I read and love to answer questions and discuss process with the children and young people. For older students I like to see their work and to do writing exercises with them.
For workshops: I like to do a brief reading and discussion followed by time to create a poem or a story with them. This time is my favourite as children have an abundance of ideas and fresh new ways of expression just waiting to be tapped.