Thank you first to my mom and dad. You got me a card to the Shelburne Library before I could even read, and then understood when I wanted to own all the books I loved anyway. I learned, in your laps, that books are comfort and adventure, and would have a forever-place in my life.
And to my big brother, Tyler—you told me that Robinson was worthy and she needed to be sent out in the world. All my life I’ve been looking up to you and listening very carefully to what you say, and I’m so thankful you said this.
I’m very lucky to be surrounded by great readers who took the time to live in Robbie’s world with me as I was creating it. Jess Rothenberg, Jennifer Ochoa, Stephanie Douglas, Gina Salerno, and Janine Stellacci, thank you for reading, listening, and encouraging.
I’m forever grateful for the Vermont College of Fine Arts community and the magic that exists up on that hill in Montpelier. In particular, thank you to my advisors, Alan Cumyn, Tim Wynne-Jones, Coe Booth, and Shelley Tanaka. I still hear your wise voices in my head while I’m writing.
Thank you to all the students and faculty of MS 324 in New York City. It was in that building, those classrooms, with you, that I realized I must write.
And thank you to the teachers I have had along the way for encouraging creativity and kindness. You may notice bits of yourselves in Robinson’s story.
I have the most incredible support and excitement from my agent, Stephen Barbara; editor, Erica Sussman; and the many people at HarperCollins who had a hand in Just Like Jackie. Thank you again and again for your vision, your collaboration, and your guidance. You are my dream team.
And to my husband, Kamahnie, and son, Miles—you inspire and motivate me every day. I am most proud that I’m on your tree.