“Tranquility Lost is a must-read for anyone interested in BC’s labour history. Steeves provides a fascinating firsthand account of the courageous occupation of the Tranquille residential complex for people with developmental disabilities by the workers at the site when government announced its impending closure in the summer of 1983. This dramatic action was an important rallying point for the emerging Operation Solidarity protest movement that took root throughout British Columbia that summer, and a heartfelt testament to the concern the workers at Tranquille had for the fate of the residents who lived there.”
– Ken Novakowski, former president of the BC Teachers’ Federation and the BC Labour Heritage Centre

“Tranquility Lost provides the compelling history of a truly pivotal moment in BC politics. The radical occupation of Tranquille in 1983 was an inspiration to thousands of other British Columbians fighting against callous government policies and was the beginning of an enormous groundswell of activism uniting community groups and labour unions—Operation Solidarity. It is not uncommon for politicians to make financial decisions without regard for workers. It is uncommon—and refreshing—to read a book written from the perspective of those workers. This book is an important addition to BC’s labour history and captures the spirit and determination of union members to protect their jobs and protect the services they provided to vulnerable citizens.”
– Glen Clark, former premier of BC

“…this book is an extremely important addition to B.C. history and a celebration of workers and our effective self-management. It also celebrates a generously expansive understanding of the role unions can play in advancing social justice issues. All of this is timely today, and an important addition to our collective memory. Highly recommended.”
– Tom Sandborn, Vancouver Sun