I am an author, and like many in my profession, I am also a traveling salesman, going all over in an attempt to persuade people to spend twenty-five dollars on a hardcover book by me.

Russians don't complain, usually.

Words are charms. It's like a song you didn't even know you knew.

A book tour is not a good opportunity to let your mind wander. You have to pay attention, remember salespeople's and interviewers' names, succinctly summarize your book in a 'selling' way, and so on.

Despite the obvious benefits, many Americans do not like Texas. Some even say they despise Texas, and make no secret of their feelings.

Russian humor is to adapt or make some sense or nonsense out of the insanity of their lives.

When I needed to think or was really upset, generally I climbed a tree.