The Push - Hardcover

by Patrick Gray (Author), Justin Skeesuck (Illustrator), Matt Waresak (Illustrator)

When Marcus moved next door to John, they knew instantly they'd be friends. Now John and Marcus do almost everything together. They go on lots of adventures, with Marcus pushing John's wheelchair and John fueling their escapades with jokes. Through their friendship, the boys discover that their unique gifts make them stronger together.

Based on the friendship of real-life best friends Patrick Gray and Justin Skeesuck, The Push teaches kids that people of all abilities have important roles to play and that we're all better together than we are on our own.

Back Jacket

This heartwarming story about the bond between John and Marcus will teach kids that authentic relationships are not limited to those who are just like us. The boys discover that their differences create opportunities for a deep, meaningful, and lasting friendship.

Author Biography

In 2014, lifelong friends Justin Skeesuck and Patrick Gray did the impossible--together they tackled a 500-mile pilgrimage through Spain known as the Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James. While most people attempt this epic journey on foot, Justin traveled the entire distance in his wheelchair, pushed by Patrick (and others). Their journey is a brilliant metaphor for the lives they have been blessed to live. Just as neither could have accomplished the rigorous trek on his own, their successes in life are largely attributed to the way they have pushed each other, and the way they have allowed others to push them.

In 2014, lifelong friends Justin Skeesuck and Patrick Gray did the impossible--together they tackled a 500-mile pilgrimage through Spain known as the Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James. While most people attempt this epic journey on foot, Justin traveled the entire distance in his wheelchair, pushed by Patrick (and others). Their journey is a brilliant metaphor for the lives they have been blessed to live. Just as neither could have accomplished the rigorous trek on his own, their successes in life are largely attributed to the way they have pushed each other, and the way they have allowed others to push them.