Richard Van Camp

Richard Van Camp is a highly acclaimed author and storyteller with a deep connection to his culture and heritage. Born in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, he is a member of the Dogrib (Tlicho) community and takes great pride in his Dene roots. Van Camp is widely recognized for his written work, which includes novels, short story collections, and children's books, as well as his talent as a storyteller.

Van Camp's literary career is marked by numerous achievements and accolades. His novel, "The Lesser Blessed," has garnered international acclaim and his short story collection, "Angel Wing Splash Pattern," has been praised for its powerful and moving narratives. In addition to these works, Van Camp has also collaborated with Cree artist George Littlechild on two children's books. His baby book, "Welcome Song for Baby: A Lullaby for Newborns," was selected as the official choice for the Books for BC Babies program and was given to every newborn baby in British Columbia in 2008.

Van Camp's contributions to literature have been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2007, he was named Storyteller of the Year for both Canada and the United States by the Wordcraft Circle of Native Writers and Storytellers. His work has been translated into many languages, including German, French, and Japanese, and he has a wide following both in Canada and internationally.

In addition to his written work, Van Camp is also an accomplished storyteller, known for his engaging and captivating performances. He has performed at storytelling festivals across North America, sharing his traditional stories and legends with audiences of all ages. Through his writing and storytelling, Van Camp continues to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Dogrib (Tlicho) people, while also making a significant contribution to Canadian literature.