This is a photo of me with my Penguin editor Jo Rosenberg, taken on our front verandah. Today is a milestone in Jo's life because it's her last day at Penguin. She's leaving to take up another editing position in Melbourne after ten years with Penguin.
Jo was the person who "discovered" me. It was her email to me a few years ago, asking if I would like to write a book for Penguin, that started me off as an author and gave me everything that spun off from that. I'm very happy that Jo came into my life, we have a very strong friendship, even though she's half my age. I imagine we'll remain close friends until I die.
So thank you Jo for all you've given me, for all the times you pushed me to do my best and for the times when you knew it wasn't my best and kept pushing. I'm very grateful to have had your guidance, encouragement and love over the time I've been with Penguin, and I wish you the very best in your new job. They're lucky to have you there.
Another wonderful woman who is leaving Penguin this week is my publisher, Andrea McNamara. Andrea also has seen me through all three books, has been the most generous guide and advisor, and I wish her the very best as she too moves beyond the walls of Penguin.
I had less to do with Andrea, but over the years and as I observed how she worked, I grew to admire her very much. She is one of those women who encourages those around her to be their best, simply by the being who she is.
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with these two creative and innovative women. I'm thankful that we started off together and with my latest book, we're all finishing together too. They've taught me a lot about self expression and, of course, that always comes back to being a life lesson as well. I'll miss you both, Jo and Andrea, and I wish you every success and happiness. xx