On November 25, 2025, Strike Diaries took its first breath, right on time to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the end of the 14-week strike on December 2.
This book is far more personal than my other four books – much more difficult to “birth” – and I have the stretch marks to prove it.
It’s not just my story.
It’s the story of 1700 brave souls, and the supporters who came out in droves to be part of the heartbeat – students, professors, staff, the local college, and the neighbourhood residents who didn’t want to feel left out of the movement that grew bigger than any of us imagined.
I invite you to step into the heart of a transformative journey with Strike Diaries, my latest book that captures the essence of courage, camaraderie, and the triumph of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of a labour strike, this narrative offers a deeply personal exploration of the profound impact of collective action and the enduring bonds forged amidst adversity.
This is more than just a recounting of events; it’s a celebration of humanity in its purest form. It is not about the politics. It’s about the people. I want to take you with me on the rollercoaster ride of emotions, from the initial spark of frustration to the resounding chorus of solidarity as 1700 of us gathered to demand pay equity with peers from other universities across our city, improved benefits and job security policy review.
Strike Diaries is my attempt to share the intimate moments of fear, hope, and resilience that defined those tumultuous days. As a single mother to a college-bound son, the stakes were high, and the uncertainty was palpable. But amidst the chaos, something beautiful emerged.
Thich Nhat Hanh’s words resonate deeply with me: “Most people are afraid of suffering. But suffering is a kind of mud to help the lotus flower of happiness grow. There can be no lotus flower without the mud.” Through the pages of Strike Diaries, I hope to show you how, out of the mud of suffering, blossomed moments of profound connection and growth.
Join me as I share daily reflections and poignant anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the highs and lows of the strike. Through the lens of my own experiences, I hope to illuminate the universal truths of hope, compassion, and the unwavering strength found within the human spirit.
With each turn of the page, you’ll bear witness to the indelible mark left on my psyche and heart, as I navigate the turbulent waters of uncertainty and emerge stronger than ever before. Strike Diaries is more than just my story, it’s a testament to the enduring power of hope, friendship, and the unbreakable spirit of humanity.
I am grateful and humbled to share Strike Diaries. Walk with me and the Mac Pac across the small farmland that nourished us in countless ways, and alongside the dedicated support staff in the downtown core, as we journey through resilience, solidarity, and the remarkable strength of the human spirit.
UPDATE (June 2, 2026): Since this post was first published, something extraordinary happened.
Strike Diaries found its way into the McGill University McLennan Library – permanently catalogued within the Quebec Labour Disputes collection (HD5330 Q4 T67 2025).
As of today, it is now also on order at the Dollard-des-Ormeaux Municipal Library.
For a book written about a story that deserved to be remembered, being placed in a permanent collection feels like the universe agreeing.
With warmth and gratitude,
Lucy
LUCY TOPPETTA 