To have someone who believes in you is a gift. To have a string of such people is simply incalculable: I am overwhelmed to have such good fortune. From the start of my writing journey there were many willing to read and question, advise and support, inspire and encourage, and in doing so, help me find my way into the fictional yet fractured Ueland family who people the core of Crazy String. So yes, I have much gratitude for so many. 

My acknowledgment list could start with my parents, but really, it would have to begin with theirs, and on and on back through generations of avid readers and legendary storytellers. Their collective love of literature is my cornerstone. Next, I would extend a warm thank you to my exceptional teachers, from Northfield Mt. Hermon, to Burlington College, to Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English, who demanded rigor yet guided me to find my voice. I would also recognize three decades of talented students who I had the privilege to learn from right in my own classroom, as they worked through their own fragile writing with me, and in doing so, taught me to take risks and accept feedback. A writing community is a joy to live within, as English teachers around the globe would certainly agree with, and I am grateful to have been at the center of one for so very long. 

Next on my gratitude list would be my friends, especially those who read and reread my words, and were willing to tackle my debut novel. A warm shout out must go to my steady Writers Group, indeed writers themselves, who met with me regularly over the years to listen, suggest, and yes, read drafts. There are so so so many others who read chapters or listened to snippets here and there, and indeed, all of you are infinitely appreciated. 

My dear wife, who read the manuscript in its early infancy and reread through multiple drafts, who offered clarity when I got lost, who reminded me of why I started writing in the first place when I hesitated, and who championed me tirelessly to reach completion, there is little doubt this novel would not have happened without her patience, dedication, and love. I am indebted. Vastly. Forever.

Of course, as my ancestors began my gratitude list, my family who surrounds me now, my children, as well as their fabulous partners in life, and my grandson, must end it. Each of you makes my life a richly rewarding one, a secret ingredient for any writer.  

Much thanks to Ana Silvani and her WeBook Publishing team for believing in my novel, and for their guidance along the path to publication. I will never underestimate a good editor again and indeed am overwhelmed by such support.

Indeed, I am indebted to all who buoyed me along this long road, and now, by so many who have already shared their thoughts about the novel in hand, Crazy String. It truly is a wonderful world thanks to all of you, xxoo