Dear Reader, As an author, my experience of one of my books starts with spending a lot of time alone writing it. I enjoy the process very much. But it is work, solitary work. When I’ve finished writing, I hand the manuscript off to my publisher, and a few months later I’m holding the bound book in my hands. Not long after, the day comes when it’s officially published. From then on, what happens is pretty much out of my hands. In fact, it’s in my readers’ hands, your hands. So, when news comes around that my book has gone directly to #1 on The New York Times Bestseller List, as is the case with The Guardians, I feel gratitude in addition to pride and happiness. I tip my hat to you, steadfast readers, especially those of you who have stood by me from the beginning, going on thirty years now. I am ever grateful for your loyalty, your patience, your kindness, and your support. Cheers,