Acknowledgments serve as a personal tribute to the many people who have played a vital role in the author’s creative journey, and in this section, the author offers heartfelt thanks to several key individuals. The author begins by expressing immense gratitude to Rick and Shirley, who were a source of stability and support during difficult times. Their presence was like a safe harbor amidst the storm, providing both emotional comfort and a sense of security when the world felt uncertain. In addition, the author thanks Michelle for her unwavering support, whether it was through sharing books that sparked new ideas, offering a patient ear during moments of self-doubt, or simply sharing moments of joy, such as enjoying scallion pancakes together. These small yet meaningful gestures of friendship helped the author stay focused and connected to their creativity. Sean is also recognized for his constant encouragement in the realms of reading and writing, consistently reminding the author to focus on the finer details of life that often go unnoticed, and which ultimately enriched the author’s work in unexpected ways.

The author extends their gratitude to Lauri Hornik and Regina Castillo, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the project. In addition, the support from the Dial/Puffin design team and the exceptional team at Penguin Young Readers Group are highlighted for their expertise and dedication in making the author’s vision a reality. Special mention is given to Deborah Kovacs and Micheal Flaherty, whose work at Walden Media was pivotal in shaping the direction of the project. The author also takes the time to acknowledge Brandon Dorman for his incredible artistry, noting how his vibrant illustrations brought the story to life, with colorful depictions that added depth and visual richness to the work. These contributions are not just technical; they are emotional as well, as the collaboration between the author and the design team created a truly unified and immersive reading experience.

Further acknowledgment is given to Sarah Hughes at Puffin in the U.K., whose efforts helped broaden the reach of the book internationally, ensuring that the author’s work found an audience beyond borders. The author expresses gratitude to editors from around the world, with specific thanks to Maja Nikolic and Elena Santogade at Writers House for their insightful guidance and editorial expertise. Kassie Evashevski, representing UTA on the West Coast, is also thanked for her role in supporting the author’s career and facilitating important connections in the literary and entertainment industries. The author’s agent, Daniel Lazar at Writers House, is acknowledged for his tireless work and constant dedication, often working late into the night, ensuring that the author’s voice and story were represented to the best of his ability. Finally, the author extends deep appreciation to editor Alisha Niehaus, who struck the perfect balance between motivation and encouragement, always pushing the author forward while providing the necessary emotional support to keep moving through the challenges of the writing process.

This section of acknowledgments is a testament to the strength of collaboration in the creative world. The author’s journey is not one of solitary achievement but rather one shaped by a network of dedicated professionals, friends, and supporters who have all contributed in their own ways. From the smallest gestures of kindness to the largest professional contributions, the acknowledgments serve as a reminder that the creation of a work of art is rarely ever a single-handed endeavor. The gratitude expressed here goes beyond mere words—it highlights the importance of community, the strength of partnerships, and the power of shared passion. Each person mentioned in these acknowledgments played an essential role in helping the author bring their vision to life, ensuring that the story not only made it into the world but also resonated with readers on a deep level.