Paul Dean was born, raised and studied in the geology and landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador. As a professional geologist, Dean has had a diverse career in geological research, mineral exploration, public service and public education. He is the former Executive Director of the Johnson GEO CENTRE, a world class geological interpretation centre in St. John's, focusing on the geological wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador. Dean served as Assistant Deputy Minister of Mines and Deputy Minister of Environment and Conservation. Paul Dean is also a story writer, a story teller and an advocate for traditional music and dance of Newfoundland and Labrador. He has been a regular performer at the annual March Hare literary festival for the past fifteen years. Some of his stories have been published in the Newfoundland Quarterly and The March Hare Anthology. He has strong roots in rural Newfoundland and continues to spend good times in Placentia Bay, where he was born, as well as in Trinity Bight and Notre Dame Bay. Most of his stories are based in small communities in these parts of rural Newfoundland.