For sharing their expertise on whale strandings, I would like to thank Dr. William McLellan and Dr. Ann Pabst of UNC-Wilmington’s Department of Marine Biology. They so generously took time to answer my questions about what can cause whale strandings, and how the Marine Mammal Stranding Network operates when called out to a site. I would also like to thank Dr. Ari Friedlaender of the Duke University Marine Lab for answering my questions about whale behavior.
And once again, I’d like to thank …
… my writing buddy and dear friend Chris Woodworth for her keen insights and ideas. By now she knows the characters as well as I do!
… my dear friend Ann Campanella and her astute and delightful daughter Sydney. Their gentle suggestions helped make me aware of times when a young reader might look for an exploration of faith.
… my exuberant friend Deb Waldron who got updated on Stephanie and Diana each day on our walks whether she wanted to or not.
… Liz Hatley, for her kind and thoughtful comments.
… Caryn Wiseman, my agent, whose support has been so key.
… Kim Childress, my editor, for her wise suggestions and her faith in my work, which means so very much to me. Many people at Zondervan have worked to support this series, and I deeply appreciate all that they have done.
… and most of all, my husband, children, parents, and brother—for their steadfast love.