Acknowledgements for Fam

This book wouldn’t exist without the inspiration and support of so many wonderful people.

We’re grateful for the professionalism and collaborative spirit of editor Laurie Herrmann and designer Sara Weingartner at Beaver’s Pond Press, who helped turn our words and photographs into this beautiful children’s book.

Our heartfelt thanks to our Green Lake neighbors, who welcomed us onto their properties to observe and photograph the crane-goose family—and who shared their own sightings, photos, and videos along the way.

During our own southern migration, the librarians at Blanco Public Library in Blanco, Texas, offered us a welcoming space, resources, and encouragement to bring this story to life.

Special thanks to Gretchen Stein and David Wettergren, early champions of this project who supported us as fellow artists, friends and patrons.

We’re also grateful to Sean Hoppes, naturalist at Wild River State Park, and Elizabeth Weiss, elementary teacher in Frederic, Wisconsin, for sharing this story with children and allowing us to hear their questions and excitement firsthand.

To our grandniece Isla, who reminded us what matters most. When she heard the goose didn’t have a name, she asked what he loved—and decided, “Then his name will be Fam.” Thank you for giving Fam and this book their perfect name.

And finally, to our families and friends who listened to our stories again and again and insisted, “You have to write a book!”—thank you. Your enthusiasm gave us the courage to share it with the world.