Acknowledgments

Writing a book is like having a child, in that only those who have one truly know what the experience is like. This is my fourth book published by Pragmatic Bookshelf, and like those before, it could not have been possible without the tremendous support and consistent encouragement and guidance of the editor and publishers. Jackie Carter has been the development editor on all my Pragmatic titles, and she once again has shown with this work why she is one of Pragmatic’s best editors. Thank you Jackie for everything!

I would also like to thank those who provided invaluable feedback on my earlier drafts to bring more clarity and specificity to the projects. Mike Bengtson, John Cairns, Sven Davies, Jim Szubryt, John Winans, and fellow Pragmatic Bookshelf author Maik Schmidt were especially instrumental in guiding the book to the final form you are about to read. You guys are amazing!

Finally, it should go without saying that without Andy Hunt and Dave Thomas, the progenitors of the Pragmatic Bookshelf, this book would not exist. They are two of the smartest technologists and book authors in the tech industry and have built a trusted platform under the expert guidance of CEO Dave Rankin that is among the most respected tech book publishers in the industry. It is an honor to be associated with such a top-tier group of outstanding individuals.