Writers should be applauded for their ability to make things up.

You cannot predict literary success; the only way you can possibly aim for it is to do your thing and do it well.

The sound of the pages turning was the sound of magic. The dry liquid feel of paper under fingertips was what magic felt like.

Books are the air I breathe, so I don't notice the seasons.

I watch his hands, they're lumpy but clever. "Is there a word for adults when they aren't parents?" Steppa laughs. "Folks with other things to do?

...Sometimes I suspect that what had really happened was that we became more resigned, more cynical, raised our pain thresholds as we lowered our expectations. All in all, settled for less.

Me and Ma have a deal, we're going to try everything one time so we know what we like.