In the back of each of my novels is an Author’s Note to separate the fiction in my text from the historical facts that drive the story. I do a tremendous amount of research to get those facts straight.
After the Author’s Note, I write Acknowledgments to thank experts who helped me obtain the historical facts. I thank those who inspired me to write that particular story. I also thank people who have critiqued the book when it was still a work in progress. I thank my wonderful editor, Carolyn Yoder. And I always acknowledge Kent Brown and the Highlights Foundation, who helped me to become the writer I am.
More Than Acknowledgments
Those who don’t get thanked or acknowledged on those pages are the ones who play a huge part after the book is published. I owe them a great deal for each book’s success.
Last year, I wrote a blog post about my family members who have helped me in so many ways. I also wrote a post about the many friends who also played a part in supporting me and spreading the word. But there are other people, many whom I don’t even know, who have been vital in my venture as an author. And that leads me to the thanks I offer today.
Thank you to bloggers who wrote about my books in their posts. Thank you to booksellers, who matched my books to the right customers. Thank you to librarians, who recommended my books to their patrons.
For The Students and Teachers
Thank you to teachers who put my books into the hands of students. I hear from students and other readers who tell me how they first came upon one of my books. A recommendation from a teacher or even a school assignment is often cited as the introduction. These people perform a valuable service that both authors and readers rely on.
Thank you to teachers and school librarians who have read one or more of my books and contacted me to come and speak to their students. I love to meet students and faculty.
For The Writing Community
Thank you to the book clubs, who invited me to sit in on meetings where they discussed one of my books. It has always been a true pleasure.
I am grateful for every member of every committee, who suggested one of my titles for consideration for a book festival or award. Thank you for throwing my book into the running, no matter the outcome.
Thank you to David Bruce Smith and the Grateful American Book Prize folks who not only honored Like a River with its inaugural award, but who continue to recommend it to readers.
For The Readers
Most importantly, I thank everyone who has read one (or more) of my novels. I work hard to tell a story with accuracy and heart, and you gave me the gift of your time and trusted me to entertain you. I hope I did not let you down.
Without readers, I would have no reason to write. And writing is my joy. Thank you all!
