Note From Merle

A Note from the Author

Much of this book was written at my dad's cabin, a place our family has loved for more than forty years.

My dad loved being here. He loved fishing, cooking for everyone, and spending time with his grandkids. Some of my favorite memories are of our family laughing together, fishing, feeding the fish in the pond he built, and enjoying one of his wonderful BBQ dinners.

I lost my dad recently, and being here without him hasn't always been easy. But somehow, when I'm at the cabin, I still feel surrounded by his love and all the wonderful memories we made here.

Writing Map of Wonder has made me think about the places we love, the people who make them special, and the stories we carry with us.

And maybe that's what Clara discovered, too.