My there-are-no-words thanks go to Michael Bourret, of Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. Your presence in my life and work has been downright transformative. I’m so happy and grateful you’re on this ride with me. And to Liesa Abrams—your support, vision, and firm place in my corner has meant more than I can say. As well, I just plain respect the hell out of your intelligence, your passion, and your commitment, to both books and the subjects of deep importance to our readers. Thank you. We joke about having the dream team, but it’s true—we do.
There is no other way to say it—publishing books is a labor of love. I thank every one of these people for the heart and dedication and talent you put into mine: Jon Anderson, Mara Anastas, Chriscynethia Floyd, Lauren Hoffman, Caitlin Sweeney, Anna Jarzab, Michelle Leo, Anthony Parisi, Sarah Woodruff, Katherine Devendorf, Elizabeth Mims, Rebecca Vitkus, Sara Berko, Christina Pecorale, Leah Hays, Victor Iannone, Christine Foye. Some of us have been doing this together for many books now. Thank you for being my publishing family. As well, my appreciation to Sarah Creech and Daniel Stolle, for your work on this beautiful cover.
Much love and thanks, as always, to my family. And to the Seattle literary community, especially my friends and colleagues of Seattle7Writers. Thanks, guys, for being a clan of kindred spirits, and for always being there with your rare and particular understanding.
This time, too—a special thank-you to my readers. You’ve shared your stories, followed every book, expressed your love and excitement, and some of you have even named your babies after my characters. You always—every day—remind me in one way or another that you are here. Thanks for bringing the meaning.