Special Thanks . . .

TO CHICK-FIL-A, CULVER’S, AND Blackwood BBQ . . . thanks for a great atmosphere to write. Entire chapters were fueled by your sweet tea!

To Gary Mann . . . for creating the incredible world “beneath the surface” . . . and allowing me to capture a bit of it in this book.

To Nancy Rue . . . your encouragement helped me keep going on this story.

To Frank Ball . . . you have no idea what it means to have a mechanic like yourself look at the manuscript and show me places to tighten it.

To Julie Holmquist . . . for your expert editing and help to make this stronger.

To Larry Weeden and Danny Huerta . . . for believing in the mission of this book —and championing it.

To Cheryl . . . for your undying love, unwavering support, and unequaled encouragement.

And to you wonderful teachers and librarians who love the kids you serve, love my books, and have worked to bring them together.