I’d like to start by acknowledging all those not difficult people who have helped me with this project: most notably my agent, Grace Freedson, who’s more than easy to talk to—she’s fun. Thanks also to my editor at McGraw Hill, Donya Dickerson, and all those other helpful folks I’ve encountered throughout this project.
Also, thanks to Janice Seimsen and Sandy Rawdon for their interest in a related project, as well as to those folks who make sure my books get into the laps of readers: Mary Roadruck, Michael Dresser, Susan Greenman, and those wonderful publicity people I’ve met over the years. Of course, big thanks go to my son, Adam. Trying to teach him how to deal with difficult people, and not become one himself, has been a pretty amazing task.
Last, and most important, a big thanks to all those truly difficult people I have met over the years. You know who you are, and the lessons you taught me have been indispensable!