I see the sharp inequality between how Haitian and Cuban refugees are treated in Florida. Both groups come here because their lives are equally desperate. But on arrival, the Haitians are incarcerated, and some are immediately repatriated, whereas Cubans get to stay and are eligible for citizenship.

Life was neither something you defended by hiding nor surrendered calmly on other people's terms, but something you lived bravely, out in the open, and that if you had to lose it, you should lose it on your own terms.

The more practice you have, the less stressful writing is.

Once you're involved in the work, it's really just you and the characters and the words.

People often think of Haiti as a place where you're not supposed to have any joy. I wanted to show that this is a place with joy.

Toni Cade Bambara said: “Writing is the way I participate in the struggle.”

Their Maker, she said, gives them the sky to carry because they are strong. These people do not know who they are, but if you see a lot of trouble in your life, it is because you were chosen to carry part of the sky on your head. -pg. 25