Under the Table (33 page)

T
his book would not have been possible without the help and support of the following people:

My wonderful editor, Peter Borland, without whose gentle guidance and insight I would have been lost.

My agent, former boss, and very good friend Faith Hamlin. She believed in this book, and in me, from the very beginning. Indeed, just when things were looking very bleak, Faith found this project the perfect home at Atria. She has my eternal affection and gratitude. Her lovely and supremely competent sidekick, Courtney, has also been a great help.

My family: My brother, Eben, read the manuscript ad nauseam and made helpful suggestions at every turn. My sister-in-law, Jenny, tried all my culinary efforts and was unfailingly supportive. My mom and dad, who started me on this path long ago, have been there every single step of the way. Michael and Annabelle make every day, and every meal, a pleasure. You have all my love and I could never have done this without you.

My teachers, particularly Chef Henri, Chef Pascal, Chef Greg, and Chef John, through whose wisdom and guidance I became a chef myself. My classmates, especially my partner Trevor, Dan, Jeanette, Frank, Melissa, Junior, and Monica, whose antics gave me so much to write about.