In the quiet world of independent publishing, a retired educator's decade-old novels are finding a new audience. Bernard J. MacDonald, who spent over thirty years in special education and teacher training, has seen his backlist experience a revival in 2026. Writers Way Solutions has released updated editions of two of his novels, and one of them, Infidel: Kafir, was recently named a finalist in the Eric Hoffer Book Award.
MacDonald's literary journey began in 2010 with Missing You, a love story set against the fog of Alzheimer's disease. It was followed by Meet Me In Sedona (2011), which MacDonald describes as a story of a heartbroken man finding solace in the red rocks of Arizona. In 2012, he published Infidel: Kafir, a cross-cultural romance that tests family honor against forbidden love. His most recent novel, Zion: Trails End (2020), tells the story of a terminally ill retired firefighter who interrupts his own end to rescue a stranger, finding an unexpected second chance at life.
The 2026 editions, including the re-titled Zion: End of Trail, are part of a broader effort to bring these stories to new readers. MacDonald also recently discussed Infidel on the Writers Way Podcast, adding to the momentum. The renewed interest is a testament to the enduring appeal of his themes: grief, illness, and cultural pressure, all set against the expansive landscapes of the American West.
MacDonald's background in education is evident in his storytelling. As a special education teacher in Oregon and a trainer of educators in Florida, he spent decades helping people navigate difficult circumstances. That experience translates into fiction that is less about literary ambition and more about resilience and human connection. His characters face hard truths and find ways to move forward, often in the midst of breathtaking natural settings that MacDonald knows firsthand from his own hiking and camping.
For readers who appreciate stories of love and healing, MacDonald's novels offer a unique perspective. The updated editions of Infidel: Kafir and Zion: End of Trail are now available, and his other novels remain in print. As MacDonald continues to write from his home in Saint Augustine, Florida, his work serves as a reminder that second acts are possible, both in life and in fiction.
The Eric Hoffer Award finalist recognition for Infidel: Kafir underscores the quality of his writing. The novel, which explores the clash between cultural expectations and personal desire, resonates in today's interconnected world. MacDonald's ability to weave complex emotional journeys into accessible narratives has earned him a dedicated readership.
In a publishing landscape often dominated by trends, MacDonald's backlist stands out for its timeless themes and authentic voice. His stories are not just about loss and love; they are about the choices people make when faced with impossible situations. That is why they are finding new readers in 2026 and why his work is likely to endure.
