People in Russia adapt to misery by a deep, deep humor.

America can enjoy a vital, fully functioning government, with all the benefits provided by Texas, while reducing Texas at the same time.

Human connection is the way things work. It's like a patronage system. You know somebody, and he knows somebody, and he knows somebody, and he knows the district governor, and it's okay.

I don't have a disregard for my reader in humor pieces.

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

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.

Everything in Russia is made of cement - phone booths, fence posts and light bulbs.