Angela Ruth Strong didn’t run businesses as a kid, but in 7th grade she did start her own neighborhood newspaper. This childhood interest led to studying journalism at the University of Oregon and having one of her stories reach over half a million readers. To help other aspiring authors, Angela founded IDAhope Writers in Boise, Idaho, where she currently lives with her husband and three children (who always love a good water fight).
Acknowledgments
My kids, Jordan, Caitlin, and Lauren, for making my backyard a dangerous place to go if I don't want to get soaked. Besides inspiration for really fun stories, they bring me great joy.
My hubby, Jim Strong, for drawing the cutest slugs ever. And for making my life even more exciting than the books I write.
My parents, Mike and Ginger McGrath, who always encouraged me while teaching me accountability the way Joey's parents do in The Water Fight Professional. Well, not exactly the way Joey's parents do, though Mom did used to put spinach in our lasagna.
My best friend, Charla Leasure, for serving cake at all my book launch parties. It's not a party without her.
My church, The Journey, for letting me hijack the youth group to be a part of my book trailer.
My agent, Alice Crider, for suggesting I dust off this old manuscript.
My publishing team, including editors John Ashcraft, Andrea Cox, Tami Engle, and Kristen Johnson. All I ever wanted was for a publisher to be as excited about my book as I was. With Ashberry Lane, I got so much more. Because while I was lying in bed too excited to sleep, they were enthusiastically burning the midnight oil to make this happen. Thank you.