I do think, where would kids be if it weren't for you and for the good pediatricians, and for the good parents? I passionately believe in sitting a child on your lap and tracing the lines of the book with your finger, and they can read before they know they can, if you bother enough. I did it with my kids, and they're doing it with their kids now.

Miracles, contrary to popular belief, do not just happen. A miracle is the achievement of the impossible, and it is only when we put aside out greed, anger, pride and prejudice so that our minds are open and ready to accept it, that a miracle can occur.

All I care about really is writing something worthwhile for children, something that will engage them in some way and stimulates in them a sense of wonder.

If the director says you can do better, particularly in a love scene, then it is rather embarrassing.

Because of the Thames I have always loved inland waterways - water in general, water sounds - there's music in water. Brooks babbling, fountains splashing. Weirs, waterfalls; tumbling, gushing.

I've been blessed to be at the right place at the right time.

It's all about giving back, helping people and encouraging people. I love to do that.