Acknowledgments

To Leda Schubert, faithful reader, intrepid friend, thank you for your invaluable insight and your unflagging support.

To Liza Ketchum, who has walked so many miles at my side. From the depths of my heart, I am so grateful for you.

To Mariam Diallo, who selflessly spends her discretionary time and money on the children at Orphelinat Foyer Evangelique. You are my inspiration and my hero.

To Sandy King, if I searched every corner of the world, never could a better cheerleader, shepherd, and courageous sidekick be found.

To Julie Reimer, you are one hardworking saint with an unsurpassed dedication to literature and the children for whom it is intended; a gifted reader, an extraordinary librarian, and a remarkable friend.

To Jean Feiwel, patience personified, vision beyond all imaginable distances, intelligence that sheds a light on every project, but particularly on this one, where so much was in the dark: my awe, my respect, and my thanks.

To Liz Szabla and Holly West, silent, but ever-present companions on this long journey, a quiet tip of the hat.

To Randy Hesse, how did I ever get so lucky?

To Paul Koch, political, historical, social, and ethical consultant, thank you for helping me see this world as only you could imagine it.

To Kate Hesse, lifter of veils on the actions and inactions of contemporary youth. How hollow this book would be if not for your input, and how grateful I am for your steady support.

To Rachel Hesse, reader of bones, fearless adventurer, befriender of those in need. Thank you for understanding and accepting my dazzling array of shortcomings.

And finally, to the children and staff of Orphelinat Foyer Evangelique in Haiti, you have taught me with your infectious zest for life that no matter how dire the circumstances, we always have a choice about how we meet the challenges and obstacles set before us.

For more information about the orphanage in Haiti that inspired Paradis des Enfants, go to:
orphelinatfoyerEvangelique.org.