Cape Breton literary pioneer to be honoured
Caplan to be recognized for contribution to literature
SYDNEY — When the Atlantic Book Awards Gala takes place online Thursday, at least one Cape Breton literary force will be front and centre.
Breton Books Publisher Ronald Caplan will receive the organization's Pioneer Award during the virtual ceremony. The Pioneer Award is given to someone from Nova Scotia who has made a substantial contribution to the literary life of the region.
Caplan is receiving the honour for his "passionate and trailblazing work in telling the stories of Cape Breton and its people to the rest of the world, through groundbreaking initiatives such as Cape Breton's Magazine and of course the establishment of Breton Books, which gave a voice to so many Cape Breton writers and storytellers.”
Among the accolades was one from Heather MacKenzie of the Halifax Public Libraries who wrote, “It was felt that (his) work best captured the true spirit of a ‘Pioneer' Award in the many ways you shone a new light on Cape Breton's culture and people.”
Caplan began Cape Breton's Magazine in 1972 and published the first Breton Book in 1988. Since then, Breton Books has gone on to publish more than 140 books, all connected to Cape Breton.
He has also received a number of honours for his work including Nova Scotia's Cultural Life Award, the Order of Canada, an honorary degree and an annual scholarship in his name at Cape Breton University.
Caplan credits others for his awards, especially Bonnie Thompson who has worked with him over the past 45 years.
“And from there, I am thankful to storytellers, historians, photographers and the many people who guided me through the work and the island's weathers. From those I interviewed for the pages of Cape Breton's Magazine to the authors whose passion continues to inform and inspire Breton Books. From the staff of shipping companies who have accommodated our needs with endless good cheer, to rural postal delivery drivers and the postmistresses who have been patient despite an enormous increase in their workload. Even the storekeepers who often give us free rein among their shelves.
"I appreciate the opportunity this Pioneer Award gives me to remember these people, to offer them my gratitude, and my thanks.”
While awards are appreciated, Caplan would like his company's books and articles to have a lasting legacy, preferably in the island's classrooms.
“In honour of all those storytellers and researchers, I think their generosity should have a permanent place in the classrooms of Cape Breton Island. After about 140 Breton Books books, and of course the 74 issues of Cape Breton's Magazine — earning a place in the island's school curriculum will be a major part of my efforts going forward.”