Magie was born in Newfoundland, Canada, and studied at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh and New School University. Her book The Queen of Peace Room was nominated for three awards, including Book of the Year from ForeWord Magazine. Her writing has been published in more than 100 quarterlies and anthologies. She created, produced, and directed The Children’s History Theater in upstate New York from 1979–1984. Her art work includes drawing and collage.

Magie’s main goal in teaching is to assure students that there are no incorrect answers in the development of life writing/memoir writing. Workshops begin with a series of brief writing exercises, followed by class discussion. Exercises are adaptable to grade level. Focusing on a single topic, including, but not limited to, the environment, friendships, family, or world events, students are encouraged and guided through the step-by-step process of creativity, from thought to paper. Magie teaches writing workshops in the United States and Canada.

Awards/Grants
Lower Manhattan Cultural Council
The Langston Hughes Award for Poetry
The Dakota Foundation
New School University Faculty Development Fund
Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Foundation
Artists Fellowship
The Shaker Foundation

Nominations
The Judy Grahn Award
Book of the Year Award, ForeWord Magazine
The CWSA/ACEF (Canadian Women’s Studies) Book Award