Microwins

Acknowledgments

Writing is hard. Actually, let me rephrase that. Writing is challenging. I like to think of the craft as excruciating euphoria. There’s nothing quite like getting an idea or a sentence right. The rub lies in the fact that it takes time, energy, and patience.

This book took the better part of a year to write and the first fruits of my gratitude go to my bride, Hilary. I’m indebted to her for listening to my bursts of frustration and excitement. As with my other two books, she’s the first reader whom I can depend on to be both honest and loving with her insights.

I am grateful to The Donut Council—Dylan, Sydney, Jackson, Delaney, and Micah. At some point all of them have asked, “Are you done with that book yet?” Their high-fives and encouraging sticky notes (“Keep going, Daddy!”) buoyed me through the highs and lows of the journey.

My parents ensured that I left their home at the age of 18 with a sound belief in my ability to manifest whatever dreams surfaced in my spirit. And my sister was the first writer I ever knew. Her input on this text can be felt throughout the pages of this book.

My chief of staff, Joy Aton-Alejo, helped me to track down sources for some of the most obscure pieces of content. I consume vast amounts of content each day, and Joy helps to keep my litany of bookmarks organized. I am thankful for her willingness to continue to work with me after six long years.

The team at Wiley is a star-studded cast from top to bottom. When Brian Neill first ...