Born in the sunny island of Saint Kitts in the Caribbean, Doreen’s academic journey took her from the shores of her home country to the windswept landscapes of Nova Scotia, Canada. Doreen graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 and worked as a psychiatric nurse for most of her life.
In retirement, Doreen embarked on a literary voyage that would redefine her legacy. At the age of 85, she made a profound realization: her children and grandchildren were growing up unaware of the rich history of their Caribbean heritage. The vibrant colours of their culture masked the shadows of colonialism and slavery that have darkened the islands. Determined to bridge the gap between the past and present, Doreen embarked on a mission to uncover the untold stories of her homeland.
Drawing inspiration from the resilient women who had shaped her upbringing, Doreen poured her heart and soul into her first book, Seawater: Women’s Voices from the Shores of the Caribbean Leeward Islands. Through meticulously researched accounts, she unveiled the tales of courageous island women who had stood as pillars of strength in the face of oppression. Their stories spoke of resilience, defiance, and, ultimately, liberation.
But Doreen’s literary journey didn’t end there. She next explored children’s literature, crafting whimsical tales that wove magic into the fabric of Caribbean folklore. The Beautiful Caribbean Rainbow Islands is a book of enchanting stories, where moon pixies dance beneath the starlit sky, and the islands come alive with wonder and possibility.
For Doreen, writing wasn’t just a means of storytelling – it was a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. In a world where history books often told the stories of European men, she sought to amplify the voices of women and children, whose narratives had long been silenced by the passage of time.
As she reflects on her life’s work, Doreen’s message is clear: the past is not a burden to be carried, but rather a treasure to be unearthed. Through her words, she beckons us to confront the uncomfortable truths of history and to find solace in the resilience of those who came before us.
Today, at the age of 90, MSVU alumna Doreen Crick stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of those who refuse to be forgotten. She reminds us that the greatest tales are often found in the unlikeliest of places – hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.