For all those times the students I worked with asked, “Mr. Broaddus, is there something of yours I can read?” and I looked them in the eye, considered my portfolio, and said “no” (because your parents would kill me), the answer is now yes.
So, for the students and faculty at The Oaks Academy Middle School and the Snack’s Crossing Elementary School, thank you for the inspiration and opportunities to work for you.
For the patient, guiding hand of my editor, Claudia Gabel.
For my agent, Jennifer Udden, since this is the project that began our relationship.
For all the librarians at ALA who encouraged me to write this in the first place (a wise writer always listens to the advice of librarians).
For my sons, Reese and Malcolm, for whom the dynamic of Thelonius and Nehemiah (and far too many of their antics) should seem familiar. And, lastly, for my wife, Sally, who still lives in a state of complete denial about the “here’s my neck” scene.
For all of you, and all those who’ve gone unnamed who have loved and supported me so well over the years, I say thank you.