Photo: Alexandre Sheldon

As he launched The Pilgrim, the fourth book in his eight book Alford Saga, at the Morrin Centre, Paul Almond spoke of the harshness of the Lower North Shore in the 1900s.

It is a rare occasion to be able to indulge in the eloquence of an experienced orator. With uncanny facility, the words exit the speaker's mouth without a trace of uncertainty, without a pause or a doubt.