Like a mermaid rising from an ocean of paper, the girl emerged across the room.

I've always loved children's books - it's not that I didn't like them, I just didn't think I wanted to do that. But then I suddenly realized I did.

Ben wished the world was organized by the Dewey decimal system. That way you'd be able to find whatever you were looking for.

I love illustrating for other writers because I am given stories I never would have thought of, and my work as an illustrator is always in support of the story.

As I look out at all of you gathered here, I want to say that I don't see a room full of Parisians in top hats and diamonds and silk dresses. I don't see bankers and housewives and store clerks. No. I address you all tonight as you truly are: wizards, mermaids, travelers, adventurers, and magicians. You are the true dreamers.

Since I spend such a long time making each book, I only choose books that I'm really interested in and that I really love.

I address you all tonight for who you truly are: wizards, mermaids, travelers, adventurers, and magicians. You are the true dreamers.