This book would not have been possible without the love, help, support and constant encouragement of my father, Latif, the world’s best.
My mother, Vera, also number one on the planet, inspired me with her awesome example.
My brother, Brian, donated his best skills with characteristic generosity and enthusiasm, and my sister Elissa cheerfully helped me more times than most people would have patience for.
I am deeply grateful to my agent, Jennifer Lyons, for believing in me from the day we met; my editor, Lyssa Keusch, who always challenged me to do better and then showed me how; and her assistant, Wendy Lee, who provided indispensable help along the way.
I thank Paul Grossman for teaching me so much about writing, and for all the fun we had in the process.
My dear friend Beth rescued me from giving up before I began, and my dearest Lydia guided me through to the end.
Finally, to my husband, Jeff, who I love more than I could ever say, thank you for this great life we share.