Jean Marie River (Apr 15/05) - Jean Marie River has not one but two writers in residence.

Carroll Macintyre has authored three books. His dog, Rory, has nosed his way into the act, publishing his own collection of amusing reminiscences on Northern adventures. Entitled A Dog's Tale: Life in Canada's Arctic, there have been 1,000 copies printed since its debut in 2001.

Rory's paw print even appears in miniature on the title page with his name below it.

There are a few misspellings in A Dog's Tale, but that's because "Rory can't spell worth a darn," and "he's not much good at proof reading," Macintyre said, smiling.

Not competing

That's not jealousy. Macintyre, the more prolific writer, has outsold Rory. There are more than 8,000 copies of his most popular novel, The Fire-Spook of Caledonia Mills (the story of a poltergeist), in circulation.

Yet, it should be noted, Rory is said to be considering a second volume, so he may catch up before long.

Actually, the two writers are not that competitive. Rory's book has generated enough revenue to cover the publication costs plus a little more.

"He bought me a digital camera out of the profits," Macintyre said of his generous friend.

The spunky West Highland White Terrier walks with the laboured gait of a dog that is about to turn 18 years old in June.

He's become a little hard of hearing, too. Yet Rory has been a faithful companion since Macintyre adopted him in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, in 1988.

In 1989, the duo travelled north to Sachs Harbor, where Macintyre became general manager of the Co-op. Over the years, they moved on to Nahanni Butte, Colville Lake and Arviat, but now reside in Jean Marie River. Macintyre, who has served as president of the Atlantic Publishers Association and a council member with the Canadian Publishers Association, is currently the band manager in Jean Marie.

As the story goes, Rory dictated A Dog's Tale while Macintyre transcribed. In reality, Macintyre confessed that he decided to write from a dog's point of view to combat a case of writer's block - and sure enough the words flowed from his fingertips.

The book is filled with recollections of various community members; how Rory has become a seasoned traveller by plane, four-wheeler and boat; and encounters with wildlife such as bison, rabbits, squirrels and a skunk.

"It's good fun, writing," said Macintyre.