ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

With so many voices functioning at the same time in this novel, I would be remise not to acknowledge all of the voices who inspired me during the process of creating this experiment. Some days I hear the voice of my grandfather, Albert, settling me down during a panic attack. My grandfather worked in a mine for $1 a day so that I could have the privilege to live and write freely in a young country. This lesson is never lost on me and it continues to motivate me to be better.

Other days, I hear my mother’s wisdom through her ­parable-like stories, or my father’s razor sharp reason from his observations on life. Thank you Leonardo and Marcella Serravalle for showing me how to stand behind my words, and for constantly reminding me where I come from. I will continue to work to the bone to honour the sacrifices made for me.

I would like to appreciate all of my students over the years whose bright-eyed faith in their teacher’s dreams is just as encouraging and necessary during spouts of doubt and second-guessing. I truly hope this assortment of words justifies the belief in language I defend on a daily basis in class. On a professional level, I would like to thank supportive writers like Lauren B. Davis, Joseph Boyden, Craig Davidson, Andrew Pyper, Mark Anthony Jarman, Michelle Berry, Douglas Gibson and many others who have offered me advice, consolation, and hope over the years. Once again, I am grateful for your generosity and time.

I would like to single out Chris Needham for having the balls to publish this story. I admire your fight for art’s sake, and your faith in this experimental work, and in me as a writer, makes me feel like a younger brother who gains confidence in the shadow of an older brother who believes in him.

On the brotherly note, I would be nowhere without the strongholds of Frank and Ryan Serravalle, who raise me up in esteem, but protect me from myself. Thank you for being close enough to reach whenever I am in need. I hope I have reciprocated the same over the years. And thank you for the joys of your families, Vanessa, Audrey, Sofia, Nicki, Leonardo and London. In the same familial breath my extended family, Linda (Ma), Rob, Cathryn, Gary and Margie are always there for me with concern, appreciation for my work, and care.

To my lovely wife Lauren and four kids, Aidan, Oscar, Tobias and Alaia, I can only say how sacred it is to be surrounded by the blessings of your unconditional love. I apologize for losing myself in your presence when I write, and for not expressing enough how much I appreciate the beautiful noise you create to wake me from my distractions. All of you save me from day to day.

Life comes full circle when you admit that you have become the very product of what inspired you to be in the first place. To all of the teachers who have found what I have said and written important enough to listen to and read, thank you sincerely. Ralph Serravalle, Maria Volante, Denise Rozman, Di Brandt, Mrs. Bidotchka, Mrs. Urquart, Mr. and Mrs. Prior, Mr. Hill, Dr. Reecer, Dr. Coggins, Dr. Crick, and so many more. It took me this long to realize that teaching and writing are actually the same thing—moving someone else with words of wisdom, love and passion.

Finally, I am humbled by and grateful for the whispered ­conversations I have with my Saviour. Let me always be an instrument for your peace and love.