Premier Stephen McNeil is extending his condolences to the friends and family of writer Alistair MacLeod.

The celebrated writer, who set many of his stories on Cape Breton island where he grew up, died at the age of 77.

“Our thoughts are with Mr. MacLeod’s friends and family during this difficult time,” said Premier McNeil. “Alistair MacLeod brought the island and people of Cape Breton to the rest of the world through his stories. His novels and writings will continue to be read for generations to come.”

Among his many works, Mr. MacLeod’s novel No Great Mischief, which follows the trials and troubles of a Cape Breton family, received wide-spread critical acclaim and has been recognized as one of Atlantic Canada’s greatest novels. It won a number of awards, including the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, recognized as one of the richest in literature.

Source: Release