ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I am deeply indebted to my research assistants—Bear, Pookie, and Tink—who helped me so very much in coming to understand preadolescent behavior. Thanks are also due to Dunny O’Toole and Julio S. for their invaluable assistance on security, technical background, and in-depth knowledge of pastelitas. Many thanks, too, to my many friends in The Biz for their years of moral support, friendship, and acting tips.

Thanks to my editor, Jason Kaufman, for his belief and support.

And finally, Dexter would never have happened without my agent and friend, Nick Ellison. Thank you, St. Nick. What a ride …