Acknowledgments

It takes a village (several, actually) to create a book. I’m deeply grateful for the talents and support of everyone involved, and would like to mention a few in particular.

Raquel Pelzel, my editor, who launched this project and brought it in for a safe landing.

Sarah Smith of the David Black Agency, my literary agent and friend, who always keeps the big picture in view, including my spot in it.

The team who tested, tasted, schlepped, swept, proofed, and propped me up through the process: Cathy Barrow, Kim Calaway, Lisa Carl, Susan Dosier, Anne Dusek, Keebe Fitch, Jonette Futch, Kendra Haden, Catherine Linford, Keia Mastriani, Mary Brooks Seagroves, Athina Sgambati, Judy Shertzer—and most of all, the incomparable Marah Stets.

The photography and style team: Hélène Dujardin, Kim Phillips, Tami Hardeman, and Abby Gaskins.

The design, production, marketing, PR, and sales teams at Clarkson Potter and Penguin Random House who weld their considerable talents to transform a manuscript into an actual book and get it into the hands of readers. Let me give particular thanks to Catherine Casalino, Marysarah Quinn, Stephanie Huntwork, Mark McCauslin, Kim Tyner, Heather Williamson, Kate Tyler, Natasha Martin, and Elora Sullivan.

Beloved companions: Thimble, Pepita, and Wren.

The musicians who serve as my sound track while I work on a book, especially Jason Isbell and John Prine this time around. You have an everlasting dinner invitation.

To home cooks and cookbook readers everywhere. We’re all in this together.