comparing these two writers with great grace and intelligence. Their fresh
ideas were invaluable. I am especially grateful to Ramapo College for gen-
erously providing me with grants and release time to pursue the comple-
tion of this book.

I want to thank Julius Lester for being a mentor and a friend, who en-
couraged me to write long ago. In the present moment, I deeply appreciate
the Writer's Room in New York City for providing a quiet place in which to
write. My family and friends have all been so very helpful. And, of course,
there is my husband Richard, who makes the process of living so much fun.

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