ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I started the first draft of this novel in my very last packet at Vermont College of Fine Arts. It was sort of a whim—a dare to write something outrageous and different—a reaction to four hard months of work on my creative thesis. With the encouragement of the faculty, I decided to honor the process and read that rough beginning at my graduation, the whole time, secretly hoping that it would force me to keep going (and show me what was supposed to happen next). Since then, I have read excerpts of later drafts at many retreats and events. I needed a lot of advice and encouragement.

When Grace Paley tells you she’s intrigued, you don’t put that thing in a drawer.

To my many writer-friends from VCFA, the Novel Retreat, and Kindling Words with special nods to Micol Ostow; Kathi Appelt; Kim Marcus; Kelly Carter Crocker; Elly Swartz; Marc Schulman; the late, great Norma Fox Mazer; and Laura Ruby, this novel’s first cheerleader. Tami Lewis Brown gets kudos for discussing all my epiphanies. Tanya Lee Stone continues to offer me the unconditional support that every writer needs to be brave. (Hurray for a plan with unlimited minutes!) Big hugs and exclamation points to all my amazing writers.com writers for being brave enough to tell the teacher what she’s doing wrong. I hope all of you are excited and surprised to read what this story ultimately became.

Kisses to Gail Marcus, Marjorie Rose, Lisa Silbert, and new friends Alex Sinclair and Bekki Harris Kaplan for all your support. To the ladies at Belleza Hair Salon in Lebanon, New Hampshire, for supplying me with fourteen years of tabloids, and to my fellow yogis in the Upper Valley and Evanston, Illinois: Namaste! The hot room offers many kinds of magic!

Thanks to my wonderful editor, Andrew Karre, who offered me vision and discipline and a new way to reimagine my stories. I’m so grateful you saw Janine’s potential, even though she isn’t always the most likable protagonist. It makes me happy to work with someone who likes pizza as much as I do. It makes me even happier to work with someone who speaks out for human rights and justice every chance he can.

Likewise, thanks to my agent, Sarah Davies, who offers guidance and support in an accent that makes me feel smarter. And she’s a Glamour Do. Always.

To my parents, Rich and Judy Aronson, who could have stopped believing in me, but didn’t. And to Ann and Jon Klein—you know what for. Writing is an incredible privilege, and I wouldn’t be doing it if it were not for my wonderful husband and family. Thank you Michael, Rebecca, Elliot, Ed, Liz, and Gregg for unwavering support and humor and indulging me.

Chocolate and flowers for everyone! I’m so happy to finally be able to thank you!