Before I ever wrote my own books, I used to turn immediately to the acknowledgments in every book I picked up. I was curious about the web of connections that invisibly tie a book together. Now, as the years of writing pile up, I feel how much such connections really mean. And so my thanks go out first to the editorial and publicity staff that has made this book grow from a seedlike possibility to a reality. Julia Pastore, Tina Constable, and Tara Gilbride gracefully head the list. I would also like to thank Maya Mavjee and Kira Walton.
On a day-to-day basis I couldn’t do without the support and affectionate loyalty of Carolyn, Felicia, and Tori. Always in the background but at the front of my heart is my family. Thanks to all.