There is a vast list of real people who have offered solace and advice, read drafts, and talked through timelines, titles, and all things mid-nineties. I know there’s no way to write these acknowledgments without leaving someone out. I want you to know I am keenly aware that this book would not have been possible without everything I’ve learned and felt through the twists and turns my life has taken. I am grateful to everyone I’ve had the privilege of knowing along the way. If I’ve forgotten a mention, please understand it’s a failure of my cluttered mind, not my heart.

Hannah Braaten, oh, how I adore you. You are exactly the editor this book needed, and I am endlessly thankful for the ways you nudged this story into shape and loved it into being. It’s a great privilege to work with you. Thank you for giving this book a home at Gallery.

Thank you also to Jen Bergstrom and Aimée Bell for seeing the heart of this story. And everyone at Gallery who has worked to usher this book into the world in such a gorgeous package—including Jen Long, Caroline Pallotta, Sally Marvin, Lauren Truskowski, Bianca Salvant, Allison Green, Iris Chen, John Paul Jones, Laura Cherkas, Jaime Putorti, Daniel Taverner, John Vairo, and Lisa Litwack. And, of course, Andrew Nguyễn, who has kindly, patiently guided me through all the little details.

Deborah Schneider, I spent so long hoping to find an agent like you, and getting to work with you is even better than I’d hoped. Thank you for seeing me. Thank you for understanding April, and always honoring how much this work means to me. Cathy Gleason, I appreciate your kindness and all of the guidance and wisdom you’ve shared with me. Thank you also to Penelope Burns and everyone at Gelfman/Schneider ICM. I’d also like to thank Joe Veltre, Katy McCaffrey, Davina Hefflin, Tori Eskue, and Kaitlyn Berry at The Gersh Agency. Thank you to Eric S. Brown at Franklin, Weinrib, Rudell & Vassallo for being so careful and so lovely.

Thank you, Ingrid Serban for bringing your music to my words, and your sweet brilliant spirit to my life. Now I know that love at first sight works for friendship too.

Caroline Angell, you relit the pilot light on my creative spirit so many times in my journey with this book. Thank you for believing in me and my work. I don’t know what I’d do without you and your fierce, gorgeous heart.

Cassandra Dunn, one of the best parts of my life is knowing that whenever I’m stuck in my writing or anything else, I get to hike it all out with you. I am always astounded by the depth and breadth of your perspective and compassion. Thank you for putting in all those miles with me.