First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Gallery Books team at Simon & Schuster. This book would not have been possible if it were not for the great support of Louise Burke, Jennifer Bergstrom, Jeremie Ruby-Strauss, Jennifer Robinson, Nina Cordes, and their entire group. You helped make this Norwegian author’s biggest dream come true. I also would like to send my appreciation to Rebecca Paley for her unique talents and to Matt Jacobi for being the best right-hand man anyone could ever ask for.
I also am sincerely grateful to the United States of America. Thank you for giving me such a warm welcome. I have always had the highest respect for your country.
On a personal level, I want to acknowledge my parents, Gerd Bie and Sverre, for the values they instilled in me growing up. I truly honor them and hope to pass along their wisdom to our five wonderful children. I owe a huge thank-you to my father-in-law and dear friend, Trond Mohn, who has been and continues to be an inspiration to me.
Lastly, to all the people around the world who have read my books: I thank you for your time and devotion. I hope to continue to motivate you for many years to come.