There are several Officially Amazing people I want to thank:
Guinness World Records for creating a way to celebrate differences, grit, and perseverance. And for making it fun!
John Rudolph, my agent, for rescuing my manuscript from the slush pile, seeing Milo’s potential, and chiseling my work until it was no longer an epic fail.
Samantha Gentry, my editor, who loved Milo from the beginning and knew exactly how to hone my words into the story I wanted to tell. And to those at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers: Megan Tingley, Jackie Engel, Alvina Ling, Sasha Illingworth, Jenny Kimura, Marisa Finkelstein, Katharine McAnarney, Stefanie Hoffman, Mara Brashem, Savannah Kennelly, and Christie Michel. I cannot imagine a better team and home for Milo.
My friends and colleagues. The Writer’s Path peeps, especially Suzanne Frank, Pamela McManus Stiehler, and Michelle Staubach Grimes, for your encouragement and your belief that I can do this writing thing. PCE and the neighborhood for your support and excitement with all things book related. Sara Goodman for being my brain twin and sounding board for all things writing and otherwise.
My beta readers. Kristie Frazier, you have no idea how good you are at editing, so I am announcing it publicly. Kate Wallace, you read for me in the midst of uncertainty, and I am so thankful for you. Brandon Davenport, thank you for laughing at “life events,” for dropping everything to help me, and for being my first fan. Brooke Fossey, you are basically part of all categories: beta reader, emergency reader, colleague, friend, and (chosen) family. Mom, I sure miss you when I’m gone. And to my Mimi. Your proofreading skills are unmatched—as are you!
My Westwood family. Cindy Edwards, you are the best teacher and mentor—and responder to texts that may or may not be subpoenaed in the future. Super 7’s, y’all are World’s Greatest Coworkers! All the kiddos of G107, thank you for letting me teach you and for letting me geek out about literature. Also for sharing your must-read books and teaching me popular slang. I’m not throwing shade or spilling tea: Brah and Sis, y’all are lit! That’s a mood. No cap! (Nailed it, right?!)
My family for putting up with me and for not being mad at me when I can’t play games because I have to edit (or sleep).
My kids, Colton, Logan, and Rowyn, who provide me with endless story inspiration. I might be able to write faster if you weren’t so noisy, but I wouldn’t laugh and love as much. Being your mom is my ultimate win.
My husband, Zach. Thank you for being my partner in all attempts at life. There is nobody I’d rather fail or win with than you.