Dave McRae

Readings

As a writer, I stress the importance of being a reader first as I learn many lessons on writing from reading. For me, this is a daily activity as I pursue my writing career. I encourage students to write what they know about and what they are passionate about. I share stories I have read and personal experiences that have shaped my character and plot development. I talk about my passion for Canadian history and much of my writing is about stories from Canada’s past. As a result, I include relevant curriculum topics that appear in the grade 7 and 8 Ontario history curriculum.

Book Sales:

Dave brings copies of his books to the readings for students to purchase and have autographed.

Biography

I am a retired elementary school teacher of 38 years, having taught at every level from primary/junior to intermediate to senior. My favourite subject was/is Canadian history. I began my career as a writer while midway into my teaching career. I often shared my stories I wrote with my students to develop their writing skills, critical thinking and literary reviewing skills. My first historical fiction novel, Blood of the Donnellys (The Dundurn Group, 2008) was published after my retirement in 2005. I have since completed three other historical fiction novels and a series of short stories based on life experiences while growing in small town Ontario in the 1950’s and 60’s. As of yet, these are unpublished.