I am especially grateful to Ben Faulkner and Derrick Robinson for bringing a bit of levity to a decidedly unfunny situation; to Carey Albertine, Dana Schoenfeld, and Rachel Taylor for providing invaluable comments on an earlier draft; to Karen Newirth for her astute (and free) legal advice; and to Betsy McPherson for always agreeing with me, an often dicey venture.

The Govindans—Madhavi Achamma, Rajan, Suman, Vik, and Héléne—have been faithful cheerleaders throughout. Thank you all for your encouragement.

My parents, Sybil and Jaikar Rao, and my second mother, Mary Baj Viegas, are endless sources of love and support. Let’s just say that my appreciation for the absurd came from somewhere. Thank you thank you thank you for everything.

I am deeply indebted to my sister, Nita Tooth Rao, for just about everything. Not only has she been my best friend and mentor for as long as I can remember, but she is also the most talented writer I know. This book couldn’t have been written without her generous—and gentle—input.

Finally, tremendous thanks to my husband, Shiv Govindan, who sings and dances for me each and every day. Less devoted performers might shy away from this sometimes temperamental audience of one. Thank you, Beagle—you are a prince and I love you wholly.