Writing is often regarded as a lonely pursuit. True as that is, publishing one’s writing requires interacting with many people. I am greatly indebted to the Princeton University Press, in particular to Vickie Kearn and her excellent team, for guiding me through this process. My appreciation for her constant encouragement and kind words cannot be overstated.
At Google, my managers and wonderful colleagues have all been supportive of my writing pursuits. Life would have been difficult, and certainly far less interesting, had it been any other way.
I have sought the critique and selfishly requested the time of many family members and friends throughout this process. For all those who read early drafts and provided such thoughtful feedback, I would like to express how indebted I am to you for your help. Let me assure you again that any mean glances, muttering, and rolling eyes that might have initially been construed as my being defensive, were just my own unique ways of saying thank you.
I would like to give special thanks to Todd Wiggins. He had the misfortune of being the first “outsider” to read my first (of many) “final versions.” Todd, I officially apologize for putting you through that. Although, beware, if you let me, I would do it again—your insightful critique helped reshape the book from the first page to the last.
To the person to whom I should say the most, my wife, Kaari, I’m at the greatest loss for words. In a year in which our lives were turned upside down, she made the time to read countless drafts, provide unfathomable amounts of reassurance, and give endless encouragement at all hours of the day and especially the night. She did this all while having to endure the great variety of moods and insecurities inherent in an “aspiring writer.” I don’t know how she did it. I am, truly, in awe. Thank you.
Finally, a note to my two children, Ashwin and Emma. My daughter is at the age where books are more tasty than interesting. She seemed to enjoy the drafts. My son declared this to be the “best book ever,” long before it was finished. Someday, when you’re old enough to read it, I hope you still like it. This book is for you two.
—Shumeet Baluja