My books are a team effort. I get lonely, I get stuck . . . and then I beg my friends and family to listen and help and read things many times. Thank you to everyone who pitched in on this novel, especially:
My fun and fabulous editor, Fiona Simpson, who wanted a book about a mean girl and thought of sweet little ol’ me.
The gang at Simon & Schuster—especially Bethany Buck, Katherine Devendorf, and Jeanine Henderson—who have been so kind to me. I’m glad we’re doing a book together, guys.
My savvy agent, Michael Bourret, who entertains me with his stories and amazes me with his smarts.
My friends—in particular Sarah Dockter, Jennifer Gels, Christy Lukasewycz, Catherine Clark, Barb Soderberg, and Carey Lyle—who helped me come up with Izzy’s escapades, assisted with plotting, and fed and entertained me while I was writing this story. Also Robin Wasserman, who boosts my confidence every time I start to worry that I’ll never finish another book.
My husband, Greg, who reads all my books many times, even when I’m working on a book about a twelve-year-old mean girl.
My kids, who hug me extra when I’m on deadline. Though you’re little now, you will all be in middle school someday. When that day comes, I hope you find friends like Bailey and Ava . . . the kind of friends who stick by you even when you make mistakes and say stupid things, because that’s what great friends do. I also hope that you will always be nice to people. It’s so much more fun than being mean.
Finally, thank you for reading this book. I love hearing from readers, so please let me know what you think of the book!