I read my books aloud before they were published.

When I was in the first grade I was afraid of the teacher and had a miserable time in the reading circle, a difficulty that was overcome by the loving patience of my second grade teacher. Even though I could read, I refused to do so.

All her life she had wanted to squeeze the toothpaste really squeeze it,not just one little squirt. [...] The paste coiled and swirled and mounded in the washbasin. Ramona decorated the mound with toothpaste roses as if it was a toothpaste birthday cake

Problem solving, and I don't mean algebra, seems to be my life's work. Maybe it's everyone's life's work.

Nothing in the whole world felt as good as being able to make something from a sudden idea.

I had a very wise mother. She always kept books that were my grade level in our house.

I didn't start out writing to give children hope, but I'm glad some of them found it.