Acknowledgements

If not for the generosity and expertise of many people, Push Back would never have come to life. Luckily, the right people converged around me at the right times. Many thanks to my dear friend Melody Kohlman, who began this process by listening to my early story ideas, then put me in touch with Lori and Allen Balser.

Following the tragic passing of their son, Andrew Allen Balser (October 18, 1990–July 23, 2005), Lori and Allen opted for restorative justice. Their commitment to responding to their unthinkable loss with compassion instead of with anger continues to inspire me. I will always be grateful, Lori and Allen, for our long conversation in your home while surrounded by photos and mementoes from Andrew’s life.

Thanks also to Allen for introducing me to Sue Hopgood and Caroline Missal, a dedicated restorative-justice team. The words of Constable Haddad, my fictitious restorative-justice facilitator, often flowed directly through Sue. I hope that Constable Haddad has made you proud, Sue, and that in some small way, I have as well.

My thanks also to RCMP Superintendent Stacey Talbot, who outlined police procedural matters when placing youths under arrest. Your expertise was invaluable, Stacey, and I am so glad we stopped to admire each other’s German Shepherds in the park that day. I continue to cherish the memory of your beloved Ned.

Dr. John Henderson, friend and neighbour, showed extraordinary patience when explaining the medical circumstances relating to the injuries that Zaine and Geezer sustained. Special thanks, John, for pointing me toward the underlying condition that led to Lucas’s amputation.

The DTO program that Zaine and Lucas attend is largely a product of my imagination. It was also informed by Susan Yardley’s insights into her family’s experiences with alternative education. Thank you, Sue. I owe you one.

Matt Spafford continues to advise me about teen culture and phrases. The extended text messages we exchanged while I was writing Push Back were invaluable to me. As with everyone else who advised me throughout the writing process, any errors that remain are mine alone.

Many thanks also to the Lorimer team for believing in Zaine and in me, and for including Push Back in the wonderful SideStreets series. A special nod to Kat Mototsune — friend, editor, and sensitivity reader — for helping me “revision” this book into another heartfelt project. Kat, it’s a pleasure sharing the journey with you.

As always, I am grateful to my darling little family. Many thanks to Ken, Anna, and Shannon. Your love, support, and confidence in me make all the difference.