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One of the most unique aspects of Flower Swallow was how fast and smoothly everything came together. Usually, I write the entire first draft, do several rounds of self-editing, and then send it off to a professional editor. This time, Amy Leibowitz agreed to edit my story chapter by chapter while I was working on it. Her feedback was invaluable, her observations astute, and her encouragement very much appreciated.
I also want to thank my early readers who took chunks of Woong’s story and gave me feedback while I was working on it. This was a big time commitment, and probably frustrating when you had to wait a whole week for the next chapters to be ready. I want you to know how thankful I am for your support, suggestions, and encouragement.
Flower Swallow is a novel born through prayer. I couldn’t have made it through even the first draft without the intercession of my prayer team. This core group of five friends (and one prayer-warrioring grandma) understood the spiritual warfare that surrounds a project like this. There was never a time when they didn’t have me covered, and this novel could never have been completed without them.
Damon Za is a cover designer who’s worked with me on several novels now, and I have to admit this one is my favorite. Thank you.
I’m also thankful for my readers, without whom this whole project would feel fruitless. A special thank you to those of you who send messages or emails to let me know my books speak to you.
Lord, you saw me through yet another novel when so many obstacles could have come in the way. You kept my aging computer functioning. You cleared out my schedule. You gave me the energy, the inspiration, and the prayer covering I needed. I couldn’t write a single word without you. I love you so much.
To my husband, I’m not sure you will ever understand how important you are to me. If it weren’t for your support, I would have never had the boldness to pursue my writing in the first place. I don’t think I will ever be able to explain how much strength it gives me to hear you say you are proud of me.
I’d also like to thank Liberty in North Korea and other organizations who are helping the children of North Korea. This book is dedicated to those little ones who are still suffering the poverty and oppression of the Hermit Kingdom. May God deliver you to a place of freedom and abundance, just like he did for Woong.
I’ve never included a fictional character in my acknowledgments before, but Woong himself is a very special little guy, and I hope that his story keeps on reminding us to pray for impoverished kids around the world who are struggling to survive. When I set my mind to write a novel about street children in North Korea, I never expected to find a character so whimsical and adorable that he earned a permanent place in my heart. But you know what, Reader?
That’s exactly what happened.
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