Acknowledgments

Acknowledgments in The God of the Woods reflect a deep sense of appreciation from the author to several key individuals and resources that significantly contributed to the development of the novel. The author begins by thanking Bob and Kelly Nessle, Kevin Gagan, Kevin Hynes, Kathleen Bower, Anna Serotta, Jean Dommermuth, Max O’Keefe, Rebecca Moore, and Steve Williams for their interviews on various pertinent topics. The author acknowledges that any fictionalization found in the narrative is solely their own responsibility, but the insights gained through these conversations were invaluable in shaping the book. Each of these individuals played a crucial role in providing the real-world knowledge and perspectives that were woven into the story, offering expertise that enriched the novel’s authenticity.

The author extends further appreciation to the authors of key publications that provided valuable inspiration during the writing process. Works such as Anne LaBastille’s Woodswoman, Robert J. Koester’s Lost Person Behavior, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Self-Reliance”, and Henry David Thoreau’s Walden are highlighted for their profound influence on the narrative. Other essential references include Creem magazine, William Murray’s Adventures in the Wilderness; or, Camp-Life in the Adirondacks, Barney Fowler’s Adirondack Album, Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Explorations: Nature Writings of Verplanck Colvin, and Peter Bronski’s At the Mercy of the Mountains. These texts offered critical insights into the themes of nature, wilderness, and the human experience within it, which were fundamental to the creation of the novel. The author emphasizes how these works guided and informed their writing, helping to develop the complex layers of the story.

The acknowledgments also extend to the publishing professionals who provided essential support and guidance throughout the process. Seth Fishman, Rebecca Gardner, and the Gernert team are thanked for their professionalism, dedication, and belief in the project. Additionally, Sarah McGrath and the Riverhead team are recognized for their unwavering support and friendship, which were vital to bringing the book to fruition. The author expresses deep gratitude for their expertise and the smooth collaboration that made the novel’s completion possible. Alongside these professionals, the author also thanks their colleagues and students from the MFA program at Temple University, including Don Lee, Cara Blue Adams, Jena Osman, Pattie McCarthy, Rich Deeg, and the late Dr. JoAnne Epps, for their feedback and encouragement during the writing process. The guidance and moral support of these peers helped to shape the book, both creatively and intellectually.

Acknowledging the importance of feedback, the author thanks Alex Gilvarry and Mac Casey, who provided invaluable insights on early drafts of the novel. Their constructive criticism helped refine the story and ensured its authenticity. The author also expresses heartfelt thanks to friends, family, and peers like Murph Casey and Jessica Geller, who offered not only moral support but also a sense of camaraderie throughout the journey. Their presence and encouragement were essential to the author’s ability to continue writing and revising the work, even when faced with obstacles. The acknowledgment of these personal relationships underscores the emotional foundation of the novel, highlighting the importance of support systems in the creative process.

Lastly, the author expresses profound gratitude to their ancestors, particularly Cheryl and Gerald Parkhurst, who made the Adirondack Mountains their home. This connection to their lineage and heritage served as an important source of inspiration for the book’s setting and themes. Family members, including Mac, Annie, and Jack, are thanked for providing the motivation and balance that helped guide the author throughout the writing journey. Their unwavering support and encouragement were instrumental in maintaining the author’s focus, ensuring that the project was completed with both passion and purpose. This closing acknowledgment underscores the personal and familial ties that provided both grounding and inspiration, making the creation of The God of the Woods a deeply meaningful and personal endeavor.