by Corina Vacco
My gentle-hearted grandmother. You always walked me to the library, allowed me to linger, helped me carry home stacks of books, and then read to me tirelessly, even when the Cubs game was on. Thank you for introducing me to the world of literature. I don’t go a minute without missing you.
My lioness mother, who is fearless and beautiful. Thank you for teaching me to view the world through an artist’s eyes, for showing me how to question the status quo, for treating all my creative endeavors like masterpieces, and for loving me no matter what. I’m so lucky to be your daughter.
My little brother (who is much taller than me now). Thank you for diffusing all my nebulous worries, cracking me up when I get too serious, always being available when I need to go out for cupcakes, and letting me dress you up in wacky outfits when we were kids. You’ve given the gift of joy to everyone who knows you, especially me.
My bright, darling son, the child of my dreams, magnificent in every way. You were with me through the revisions and when I mailed this manuscript off to my publisher. You fill my life with laughter, Matchbox cars, and sweet moments. My love for you is endless. You said it best: “Mom-mom’s happy because she’s with her boy.”
Dad, who saved every drawing, every story. Kathy, who understands all things Pisces and is an excellent confidante. Sandy, who is vigorously supportive. Parry, who rescues animals with tireless compassion. You have each given me love and encouragement in spades, and I am so grateful.
My loyal, fabulous, and beautiful girlfriends, some of whom have been by my side since childhood, and all of whom are strong, fun, intelligent, brave, unique, and kind. Thank you for cheering me on and for being there. You are my sisters. Special thanks to Rhonda Hulpiau, who took me to see the landfills.
My critique group friends who helped me whip this book into shape, especially Robyn Gioia, Elle Thornton, Gregg Golson, Cynthia Enuton, and Janet Walter from the Jax novel group; Shelley Koon for rocking my author photo; Linda Bernfeld for making SCBWI Florida sparkle; Alvina Ling for early insights on character; Katie Burke for turning me on to the Left Coast Writers; and Danielle Morgera for being my first reader.
Françoise Bui, my talented, eloquent, and marvelous editor. I won’t ever forget the shock and excitement of that first phone call. Thank you so much for choosing my manuscript and shaping this book, and for all the behind-the-scenes things you’ve done that I don’t even realize. This book sparkles because of you.
Joyce Sweeney, my mentor, for all the advice, nurturing, and tireless support. Without you, I would’ve been lost. The bean ceremony was one of the highlights of this whole journey. You are a wonderful teacher and a dear friend. I’m honored to be your number 32.
Tina Wexler, difficult-to-please wielder of the red pen, steadfast nurturer of fragile confidence. You rescued me from the netherworld of slush. You helped me grow as a writer. You are my friend and guiding star. Thanks for challenging me when I needed it most.
All of the extraordinarily talented people at Delacorte Press who’ve played a part in transforming my manuscript pages into this breathtaking book, especially Shane Rebenscheid and Kenny Holcomb for the perfect, amazing cover art and design, and Bara Mac-Neill and Colleen Fellingham for the meticulous copyediting. You are deeply appreciated.
SCBWI for the endless inspiration, enrichment, and professional guidance. There is something magical about being immersed in a culture of writers and illustrators who create works of art for children and teens. A special thank-you to Lin Oliver and Steve Mooser for creating the SCBWI family.
And last but certainly not least, thank you to all the librarians, human rights activists, artists, environmental stewards, musicians, book lovers, and fellow writers out there. You make the world a better place.
About the Author
Corina Vacco felt compelled to write about toxic towns after reading an article alleging that hundreds of thousands of children and teens throughout the United States attend schools built on or near dangerously polluted sites. She found the inspiration for this book while living in western New York, where she heard teachers speak out against a landfill adjacent to an elementary school.
A city girl, world traveler, and activist, Corina enjoys playing guitar, listening to the blues, and exploring the great outdoors. She lives in Berkeley, California, with her husband, who is a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, and their magnificent puddle-splashing, car-loving little boy. They share their home with one slightly neurotic but very lovable Italian greyhound and a growing collection of books. My Chemical Mountain is Corina’s first novel. You can share your pollution-inspired stories, poetry, or artwork with her on mychemicalmountain.com.
