Any people whose lives are about the way they look, whether it's fat or thin, are in a dangerous area.

It was my father who taught me to value myself. He told me that I was uncommonly beautiful and that I was the most precious thing in his life.

When I wrote 'Dear Fatty,' I realised that sitting and writing alone is an absolute joy.

I haven't really ever had to audition for anything.

I am a rubbish flirt.

I've never disliked myself, and my weight has had nothing to do with my self-esteem.

I think of myself now as a writer, although I wouldn't go as far as to say 'novelist' because that sounds like a Victorian person.