I wrote poetry, journals, and, especially, plays for the neighborhood kids to perform. I had an ordinary, happy childhood. Nothing much was going on, but I had fun.

Those who do not know how to see the precious things in life will never be happy.

I enjoy people who aren't afraid to say what they mean. It makes life so much easier!

Every girl pretends she is a princess at one point, no matter how little her life is like that.

This isn't a fairy tale. It's New York City.

Since I've written many of my books from a less-than-sympathetic viewpoint, I think that being able to see things from all sides is a useful talent.

Anyone else feel like that? Like your life's a big act. Like you're trying to be a man when you're just a scared kid, trying to keep under control when you really want to scream, cry, or maybe hit someone. Ever feel like you're breathing underwater and you have to stop because you're gulping in too much fluid.