A novel can educate to some extent, but first a novel has to entertain. That's the contract with the reader: you give me ten hours and I'll give you a reason to turn every page. I have a commitment to accessibility. I believe in plot. I want an English professor to understand the symbolism while at the same time I want the people I grew up with - who may not often read anything but the Sears catalog - to read my books.
Barbara KingsolverMother could go for one year without food, but not one day without her lip sticks.
Barbara KingsolverI don't *ever* write about real people. Art is supposed to be better than that. If you want a slice of life, look out the window.
Barbara KingsolverYou could love your crazy people, even admire them, instead of resenting that they're not self-sufficient.
Barbara Kingsolver