Acknowledgments

I must first thank Carol Long from John Wiley & Sons whose first question, “Have you considered writing a book?” led ultimately to the one you are holding. I might have put it off indefinitely if not for Carol's confidence in me.

At John Wiley & Sons I especially thank Adaobi Obi Tulton, my project editor, for her patience with this first-time author and her enthusiasm for the project. Thanks also to Nancy Gage (www.coroflot.com/n-gage), Ashley Zurcher, San Dee Phillips, Christine Mugnolo, Katie Wisor, and the many other people involved in bringing this book together.

Heartfelt appreciation to my good friend Penny Sansbury for acting as my personal editor. Penny not only brought her technical writing background to the table, but she's the kind of friend from whom I am guaranteed to get honest feedback.

Thanks to designer Ray Vella for adapting one of his infographics for use as the cover design.

Special thanks to all the companies and designers of the data visualizations and infographic designs included in this book. Your generosity helps us all learn to be better designers.

I owe a debt of gratitude to the thousands of visitors and subscribers to the Cool Infographics blog and to all the readers that have contributed comments and submitted infographics, and everyone that contacted me over the years to share their support.

I offer both thanks and encouragement for the thousands of infographic designers throughout the world. Your work has taught me, inspired me, and convinces me we will be doing this work for a long time to come.

I must also thank my parents, Sue and Bill, for always encouraging me to explore my interests and teaching me not to be afraid of going my own way.

Finally, I offer the most credit to my wife Mary Kaye, my biggest and most steadfast supporter. I can never thank her enough for encouraging me to follow my passion when I started the blog, started my own company, and eventually started writing this book. I can count on her to continually remind me—without subtlety—to get back to writing.