With special thanks to Phoebe Yeh and Joy Harris, who made it happen. To Andrea Gollin and Cristina Nosti, who read various versions of this book and helped me to understand it. To Scott Eason, who makes it possible.

And extra-special gratitude to the people who shared their childhood with the adult me: Jacob App, Jordan App, Lauren Bare, Grace Abujaber-Eason, Alec Effinger, and Katie Effinger. Thank you for reminding me of the importance of stories, creativity, and magic.