Speak No Evil
Page 28
The act of writing may be a solitary endeavor, but it takes a village to breathe life into a book and bring it to publication. Speak No Evil is no exception. The idea came like a lightning bolt and hit me on my way to work on a clear, sunny morning several years ago. To be honest, the thought of tackling this book in the way it had to be written frightened me because I’d have to delve into things I’d rather not face. But above all, this particular book required something special; something I was not capable of writing. I am referring to the lyrics. It was so important to get those right, and I am not a lyricist.
To Lucas Astor—a HUGE thank you, for writing all of the original lyrics for the story. I hear each song clearly in my head, and they all brought tears to my eyes with how perfect they were for the moment. I am still amazed how you created those songs based on the limited information I provided. Without those lyrics, this book would not be the same, and hopefully one day we can bring those songs to life.
To Italia Gandolfo—my eternal thanks for seeing my readiness to write the story when I couldn’t see it myself. Without you, Melody would still be locked inside my head. You have been incredibly patient and perceptive, and your belief in me allowed me to stretch beyond my abilities to put this story on the page.
To my mother—thank you for giving me the empathy to feel the stories I write.
About the Author
Liana Gardner is the multi-award-winning author of the Misfit McCabe series, 7th Grade Revolution, and The Journal of Angela Ashby. The daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface. Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but allows her imagination to take her wherever she wants to go.
She fostered her love of writing after reading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and discovering she had a great deal in common with the character Jo. The making up of stories, dramatic feelings, and a quick temper were enough for her to know she and Jo would have been kindred spirits.
Liana volunteers with high school students through the International Trade Education Programs (ITEP). ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow. Working in partnership with industry and educators, ITEP helps young people “think globally and earn locally.”
www.LianaGardner.com
www.SpeakNoEvilNovel.com