his book would not have been possible without the hard work and optimism of my agent, Kate Schafer Testerman, and the vision of Susan Van Metre, whose editing was always marked by thoughtfulness, flexible thinking, and a sense of humor. Special thanks also to Maureen McLane, my earliest champion and the catalyst for all that followed; to Tina Bennett, for opening a door; and to Charles and Vanna Rae Bello, for sharing their home and work in the redwoods with my family.

I am truly grateful to the friends and neighbors who fed and cared for my family, took walks with me, and generally cheered me on during the writing of this book, as well as to the communities at Clarendon and Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger. I would also like to thank those who took the time to review early (and later) drafts of this book, particularly my young readers, Jules Cowan, Izzy Miller, and Kara Scherer. Françoise and Jim French, Kelly Kilcoyne and Melissa French, and Chris and Judy White were a constant source of reassurance and encouragement; special acknowledgment is due to my sister for her many good ideas (like tree houses) and my mother, who followed Operation Redwood’s progress with unflagging enthusiasm. My husband, Sai, provided frequent logistical aid and whatever else I asked of him. Finally, Operation Redwood was inspired by, and is dedicated to, my children, Nathan, Clara, and William, who taught me the value of perseverance and waited patiently for this book to come out.