Mrs. Joyce Rice

I’m an Indigenous (Mi’kmaq) writer from St. Albans, Newfoundland, Canada. Growing up shy and often bullied, I learned to value the quirks that make us who we are. For 25 years, I worked as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) in long-term care, where I witnessed storytelling spark joy and help elders reconnect with their youth. Early retirement after a back issue led me to study grief and loss, including trauma in children—work that deepened my commitment to healing through words. I now write inclusive, hope-forward stories for young readers. My debut middle-grade novel, Bray and the Adventures of Zorkon (ages 9–12), champions diversity and kindness. My second book, The Rise of Little Bear, is now available. I also share reflective essays on my blog. I believe stories can help us see the beauty in our differences and remind us that with heart and determination, we can reach our dreams. Together, we radiate a brighter and more beautiful light than we could ever do alone.