The making of this book has been a long and winding journey. Once upon a time I thought it might become a play. It never did reach the stage, but during those early days, assistance from Stages WA, director Steve Jodrell and a fine ensemble of workshop actors helped me to bring the characters to life, and put some flesh on the bones of an idea. The hard writing yards were significantly enabled by a creative development grant from the WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
Perhaps inspiration is not the right word in the circumstances, but my mother Hazel was an inspiring person to me and to many others. Being a witness to her journey into the badlands of dementia is fundamental to why I decided to tackle this book, and has informed its writing in many ways.
My wee clan of Lesley, Kel and Sam—especially in this instance Lesley—have been invaluable as always, not just as family but as readers. And this book in particular has presented some challenges to them—to which they have risen magnificently.
Ray Coffey, once again, has been an invaluable reader and adviser. Thanks to Allison Stout for running an architect’s eye over an early draft, though I must stress that she bears no responsibility; and to Les Mack for taking me kayaking on Derbal Yerrigan. A special thank you to my Camus consultant and old friend Paul Munro.
Naama Grey-Smith continues to be a joy to work with as my editor. Thanks to her and to the Fremantle Press gang.
The quotes from Final Exit are used with the permission of the author Derek Humphry.
The two brief sentences of piercing wisdom from Albert Camus that I have used as an epigraph are an extract from ‘LE MYTHE DE SISYPHE’, copyright © Editions Gallimard, Paris, 1942. All rights reserved.