The Whole Business with Kiffo and the Pitbull (26 page)
Comments:
Jaryd has completely wasted his time this semester. He has been
resistant to learning and disruptive in class. His written work
shows little understanding, insight or sensitivity.
There are two things that all writers need: encouragement and then more encouragement. I have been fortunate that so many people have supplied these unstintingly. Thanks to my family, local and distant, for their support. Kris and Kari, you always believed. Lauren and Brendan, thanks for reading the manuscript and providing important insights (and for water-throwing, Lauren!). My gratitude, also, to Peter Styles for checking certain parts of the narrative.
Jodie Webster and Erica Wagner, of Allen & Unwin, took a raw manuscript and transformed it. This book could not have been written without their expertise and belief. I would also like to thank Penni Russon for her intelligent and sensitive assessment of the first draft.
Above all else, my wife, Nita, was a reader, critic and guide, and an unfailing support when things got tough. It is impossible to adequately acknowledge her influence and contribution. Beggar that I am, I am poor even in thanks.
