Friends and fellow authors who lent their insights: April Henry, Janet Piehl, and Emily Whitman.

Publis.h.i.+ng pros and industry shepherds: Michael Stearns (agent and friend), Tamson Weston (who bought it), Catherine Onder and Hayley Wagreich (who saw it through), and Stephanie Lurie and the rest of the dream team at Disney-Hyperion.

And always and ever, those who loved it first and fiercest: Richard Zinn (Daddo)-"Okay, now you can read it"-and Barrett Dowell, husband, best friend, and soul mate.

"Thanks for everything. Love to you all."

end.