And then as always, I saw the prayer coming at me. And, as always, Number 1 killed me! Set me on fire, cooked me to medium rare and then ate me! I really, really, really hope I haven't just given away the ending of this story.

When I wanted information, it was silent; when I didn't want to hear from it, it got chatty. It was alost as irritating as Fang.

Nudge: "I look like prep school Barbie. (looks at Max) Actually, you look like prep school Barbie. I'm just Barbie's friend.

Once I was seated, I couldn't help people-watching. I'll admit it, I'm an addict from way back.

Please, I begged silently, please do not let my last moments on earth be me crammed into a tiny boat in the dark, surrounded by mechanical singing pirates.

I guess I write four or five hours a day, but I do it seven days a week. It's very disciplined, yes, but it's joy for me.

Yes, Max, you are going to die. Just like everybody else. Thank you, Confucious.