Ian McLeod. Photo courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Lennoxville native Ian McLeod, an accomplished author and former documentary filmmaker, shared his deep-rooted connection to the Eastern Townships in a July 24 interview about his latest novel, “The Dispossessed.” The book delves into the life of Donald Morrison, the notorious Megantic Outlaw, and captures a vivid portrayal of 19th-century Quebec.

Born and raised in Lennoxville, McLeod’s connection to the Eastern Townships runs deep. “My father and grandparents were from Megantic, and my grandmother told me the story of the Outlaw when I was quite young,” he reminisced. McLeod, who now resides in Toronto, left the Eastern Townships at the age of 17 but has never forgotten his roots. His latest novel, “The Dispossessed,” is a testament to his enduring fascination with the region’s history.

The story of Donald Morrison, a Scottish-Canadian folk hero, is central to McLeod’s narrative. “Morrison grew up in Megantic and later went out west to Montana to work as a cowboy. He sent money back home to support his family, but through some shady financial transactions, they lost the family farm,” McLeod explained.

Morrison’s story, marked by his evasion of the law and the local community’s support, resonated with McLeod from a young age. “It struck me as a very interesting story,” he said, adding that it stayed with him over the years, eventually inspiring him to write the book.

“The Dispossessed” is narrated by Peter Span, a young reporter from the Montreal Daily Star, who becomes embroiled in Morrison’s story. The narrative explores the complex dynamics between the characters and the societal pressures of the time.

McLeod, drawing from his own experiences as a journalist, infuses the story with insights into the nature of journalism and the pursuit of truth. “There’s also sort of an under-theme of journalism… just how journalists try to shape the narration of the story they’re covering,” McLeod noted.

The Eastern Townships’ setting plays a crucial role in the book, providing not only the backdrop but also a cultural and historical context. “The story takes place in the Eastern Townships, which is very important to the story. Megantic was a Scottish settlement, and that area’s rich history is integral to the narrative,” McLeod emphasized. McLeod’s personal connection to the region is evident in his meticulous research, which he conducted using a variety of sources, including extensive internet research.

McLeod hopes that readers will not only enjoy the thrilling plot and well-developed characters but also gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Eastern Townships. “I’m a history buff, and I find history interesting on a number of dimensions,” he said. “I think it’s important that people know the history of their area, told in an entertaining, kind of page-turning way.”

Reflecting on his childhood in Lennoxville, McLeod expressed fond memories of the small-town community. “A small town is a great place for a kid to grow up,” he said, recalling his time on Academy Street and school days in the area. He also mentioned attending a reunion for the former Lennoxville High School, now an elementary school, which he described as a nostalgic experience that reconnected him with his past.

As McLeod continues to promote “The Dispossessed,” he remains passionate about sharing the rich history of the Eastern Townships. The book is available on Amazon and at Black Cat Books in Lennoxville, offering readers a chance to explore a captivating tale that intertwines history, culture, and adventure.