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When I was asked what I did for a living, it often took me by surprise (because what I do for a living doesn't define me). It was and still is however, a question asked in all circles and it caused me to rethink my response.

I teach, mainly because I need food and shelter (but I do love teaching) . Writing however, is an innate compulsion that has a will of its own and sometimes has no concept of time, space or matter (hence the need for food and shelter work).

I have been writing since I learned to write (around 6) and haven't really stopped. But in terms of my response to Who I am, I have finally reached a point where I can say "I am a writer and I teach".

I have taught from kindergarten through to adult students and they all bring a unique flavour and dimension to both my teaching and my writing.
I have spent the last three years teaching at International schools in Hong Kong and China and one of the main reasons I did that was - for inspiration. I wanted to write another children's book but my years in education (management) had dried up any creative juices in the early childhood field. Did it work? YES.

My new children's book "Alexander's Extraordinary Gift" (due for release Dec 08) is my third children's book and follows the relationship theme of my other books Tears in a Treasure Box and Cranky Granny. I really believe that children need to develop strong emotional attachments with significant adults as a readiness not only for life long learning but for healthy life long relationships with others.

My other publications include early childhood resource books for educators and child development articles. Of course there are still the usual myriad of written and yet to be published; social commetaries, stories, articles and poems.

Perhaps in the after life, where there is no concept of time space and matter..I will be able to write full time, as I won't need to sorry about food and shelter!

www.elenimcdermott.com

When I was asked what I did for a living, it often took me by surprise (because what I do for a living doesn't define me). It was and still is however, a question asked in all circles and it caused me to rethink my response. I teach, mainly because I need food and shelter (but I do love teaching) . Writing however, is an innate compulsion that has a will of its own and sometimes has no concept... More