I’ve poured a few years of my life into these stories now…and I’ve loved every single minute of it! My lifelong dream has come true in the last twelve months and I just wanted to make special mention of some of the wonderful people who helped to make it all happen.
I must start with my agent, Anne Finnis. Thank you, Anne, for all your kindness and wisdom – you really are the one for me! Thanks also to Caroline Hill-Trevor for taking Ben out into the world. I’m also deeply indebted to my friend, Helen Greathead – I’ll always remember my first editor.
The Battles of Ben Kingdom have allowed me the privilege of speaking in schools, libraries, festivals and bookshops across the country. Big thanks to The Edge of the World Bookshop for my first front window; to all at Foyles for their support; and to my friends at Waterstones Plymouth – especially the lovely Libby Allman. Special thanks, as always, to the staff and children at SDPS.
Everyone knows how proud I am to be an Usborne author. Firstly, I have to thank Rebecca Hill – I couldn’t wish for a more supportive publisher. Sarah Stewart and Becky Walker – I’m grateful for your eagle eyes. Big thanks also to Amy Dobson and Anna Howorth – I still get goosebumps when I see our books on the shelf.
Thanks go to the talented Hannah Cobley, Neil Francis and Sarah Cronin – I continue to be thrilled by your breathtaking design; Ian McNee – love the map; and the amazing David Wyatt – Best. Cover. Ever.
Very special thanks, as always, to my brilliant and insightful editor, Stephanie King – from start to finish it has been an absolute joy to work with you, dear editor. We did good. Thank you, so much.
Mum and Dad – I don’t know what I would do without your limitless love; thank you for always believing in me. Darling Amanda – you still bring laughter into my life. Mum and Jack – I love you loads. Trè and Christina – big love, always. Colin, Stuart, Richard, Martin and Charles – my band of brothers, I treasure our friendship. Ben and Lucy – I don’t have enough words to say how much I love you. My darling Jules – every day you give me a new reason to love you; my best friend, my helpmate, my gorgeous wife, I couldn’t do this without you. And my Loving Father – all the glory is yours. I love you all.