I still can’t quite believe this day is here.

I remember when I was 12 or so, scribbling my first novel in a spiral-bound notebook in my room in NJ, dreaming of someday getting published. I remember reading wonderful novels and wishing desperately that I might someday write a book that meant as much to someone. I remember sending out a manuscript for the first time and being crushed by the disappointment of form rejections. I remember each of my now-trunked manuscripts, how much I loved writing them, and how I struggled with their imperfections. I remember my friend John casually inviting me to join a group of other writers doing this thing called NaNoWriMo back in 2003, and how I decided it would be a good opportunity to write this fun book I had at the back of my mind about a girl who tells a fake fortune and then needs to make it come true.

I remember feeling like giving up. I remember my friends who inspired me with their determination, and my family who always believed in me. And I remember finally selling FORTUNE’S FOLLY in March of 2007, half-believing it was all some sort of giant practical joke, delighted and overjoyed even though it wasn’t going to be published until 2009. It seemed so far away.

And now it’s here. Somewhere out in the world (I hope!) copies are being put out on the shelves of bookstores, arriving on doorsteps, being entered into library system catalogs. Pretty soon (I hope!) people will be reading it. Real kids. My relatives. My friends. Strangers.

It’s thrilling, and mind-blowing and makes me feel profoundly blessed. I am so very grateful to all my friends and family and to the other writers who have inspired me. And to Fortunata, for giving me her story to tell. I really hope you all enjoy it!