Several years ago, Margie Wolfe of Second Story Press gave me the idea for this book. She had watched a twinning ceremony while attending a Bat Mitzvah, and thought this would make a wonderful premise for a novel. That idea was truly a gift, and for that, and so many other reasons, I am grateful to Margie. She has been a wonderful mentor and friend throughout my writing career. I have thanked her many times in the past, but this gives me one more opportunity to express my gratitude for all that she has done.

Peter Carver added his experienced editorial eye to this project, and for that I am most grateful. His feedback was insightful and sensitive, challenging me to think more carefully about this story and these characters. It’s been a privilege to work with Peter and to have him as my editor.

Thanks to Carolyn Jackson for the additional editorial review, Melissa Kaita for her creative design, and to Emma Rodgers, Phuong Truong and Barbara Howson, the wonderful women of Second Story Press.

My deepest thanks to Gabby Samra, Dexter Glied-Beliak and their families for sharing their real-life twinning stories. Special thanks to Bill Glied, Dexter’s grandfather, for talking with me about his history.

I’m grateful to my friend, Marilyn Wise, for helping with the translation of the Yiddish song.

I have drawn information about the Warsaw Ghetto and the uprising from several sources. Primary amongst these is the book Brave and Desperate: The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising by Danny Dor, Ilan Kfir and Chava Biran.

The Ontario Arts Council, Writers in Residence program generously provided financial support for this project.

I have a fabulous circle of personal friends, writer friends and family friends. I thank them all for listening, caring and encouraging me in every possible way.

Finally and always, I want to thank my wonderful family, my husband, Ian Epstein, and my children Gabi and Jake. The three of them read early drafts of this book, and provided valuable feedback as I struggled to create a meaningful story. I am grateful for their honesty, their laughter and their love, and I return all that and more.