A story in its final, published form is influenced by many things, some of them living, some of them chocolate. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to the following living things:
Mrs Groves, for allowing me to reside in the attic of your unusual boarding school while I researched this book. The morning deliveries of tea, crumpets and honey were much appreciated, as were the late-night lullabies sung by the spider choir. The parting gift of the donkey was not appreciated. She takes up far too much room in my bed and talks in her sleep.
Tegan Morrison, for encouraging me to write a rollicking boarding school story.
Barbara Mobbs, my literary agent and Pig McKenzie’s best friend, for your unfailing kindness and support.
My friends at HarperCollins — especially Kate Burnitt, my clever in-house editor; Chren Byng, my lovely publisher; and Cristina Cappelluto, who met Olive first and embraced the craziness.
Lucia Masciullo, talented artist and creative genius. Seeing Olive’s story brought to life in your pictures has been a truly joyful experience.
Klaus, my son, for your clever comic and literary contributions.
Carsten, my husband, for making dinner when I was writing and lost track of the time. Sweet potato and lettuce casserole might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it beats eating the crayons off my desk. Especially the blue ones that taste like poo.