The Clockwork Scarab

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As a writer, sometimes I think I do the easy part when it comes to publishing a project. There are so many people who have been involved in The Clockwork Scarab from the basic concept through the volume you are now holding, and I want to thank them all.

First, Maura Kye-Casella, my hardworking and patient agent for seizing on this concept in its very early stages and helping me muscle it into something better than the original one.

I also thank Mara Jacobs, Holli Bertram, Jana DeLeon, and Norah Wilson—some of my best writer friends—for reading one or more versions of the book.

There were several experts in the field of young adult fiction who took the time to read and give feedback on the book. I’m indebted to Rachel Wagner, Christiana Eisenhut, Jessica Nietzche, Cameron Martin, Sarah Pierce, Amy Pelizzaro, and Rebecca Moxie. Your thoughts and feedback were appreciated and taken to heart.

An extra special thanks to Emma Schulte for coming up with “cognoggin.” Absolutely brilliant!

My peers and friends Kady Cross, Rachel Hawkins, Sophie Jordan, Kristi Cook, Leanna Renee Hieber, and Leah Cypess took time out of their own creative processes to read The Clockwork Scarab. Receiving positive feedback from such talented ladies is something I treasure greatly.

I’ve published more than two dozen books, and I am blown away by the amazing and creative team at Chronicle Books. I value the dedication from everyone in the production process and for including me in all aspects of the design, packaging, editing, and marketing for The Clockwork Scarab. In particular, my hardworking editor, Kelli Chipponeri, has gone above and beyond the call of duty with her time and effort spent on this project. I do believe she could recite the book by heart if asked. Ariel Richardson has been up to her elbows in the project as well, and if Kelli missed a word reciting the book, I’m sure Ariel would be able to fill in. These two women have been instrumental in making this project the best it could be. Thank you.

And finally, as always, I thank my husband and children for putting up with having a creative person for a mom and a wife. There are days when it’s fun having an author in the house, but there are other days when we order take-out or I can’t do a family movie night or I’m only half listening because I’m trying to work out a plot point. I love you all so much for your patience and acceptance and support.