Acknowledgements

My thanks to Medina Sumovic for her insight into Deaf culture and watchful eye on my Auslan. To pedantic ghoul Kate Goldsworthy, whose editorial insight made all the difference to me and the book. The Echo team, in particular publisher extraordinaire Angela Meyer for her ongoing support. Janette Currie whose talks of books and darkness spurred me on, and Sandy Cull for the beautiful cover design. Simon Dale and Marcus Viskich for their IT advice, and The Hot Milkers for their writerly chats and laughs. I’m grateful to the Australia Council for giving me the much-needed time to write. And above all to Campbell, Meg and Leni for their patience, love and support; I owe you all a holiday.