Welcome!
My stories and poems are often about outsiders, and the struggle to stay true to a sense of calling and find home. Motivated by dreams, ghosts, history, metaphysics, lyricism, feminism, and tales of love and suspense, I bring various “lives” to my writing—a background in theatre, two decades teaching, and years of helping adults to make significant, desired changes. For me, writing and spiritual questing are inseparable. I hope that as you engage with my work, you’ll feel intrigued, enchanted, and inspired to grow in ways that are personally meaningful.
—Robin Blackburn McBride
“Tales about orphans left to find their way in the New World are many, but few are as engaging as this story.”
—Historical Novels Review, Editors’ Choice
“An engrossing read not to be missed… The Shining Fragments is a story about memory, loneliness, survival, transformation, and self-knowledge, told in a style both sensual and sensuous. Blackburn McBride holds back some shocking revelations until the final pages.”
—Sharon Kirsch, Award-winning Author of The Smallest Objective
“The Shining Fragments is a tale of immense and haunting beauty… Blackburn McBride has a truly remarkable gift for storytelling and The Shining Fragments, rich in Irish lore and Toronto history, is a captivating tale.”
— Katherine Taylor, Author of Toronto: City of Commerce
“Told with a gripping, compassionate power.”
—Wayson Choy, Novelist and Member of the Order of Canada
“The focus on Toronto of Old in Michael Ondaatje’s In the Skin of a Lion meets the resilience and sense of wonder in children portrayed in the Dickensian bildungsroman. Woven with Irish mythology, and imbued with pathos and humour, the book also brings to mind memoirist Frank McCourt’s Angela’s Ashes.”
—All Lit Up
“Sad… uplifting and sharp in its detail.”
—NB Magazine, UK
“A deeply moving historical saga filled with beauty and mysticism. This book was everything I love.”
—Kristin Clark, Amazon Reader
Books
Looking for your next moving read?
Gripping historical fiction, inspirational self-help, and poetry that intrigues and enchants. Order books and read excerpts.
Author Presentation & Speaking
Book club visits, author readings, and dynamic workshops and talks on the creative process—from the power of vision to overcoming obstacles in service of your dream.
Personal Coaching
Seeking to ignite your creativity and transform your results?
Learn more about Robin’s professional coaching offerings and the benefits of having an experienced mentor in your corner.