When I start to write, I see my stories as a kind of movie. For instance, I ask myself, "What kind of opening do I want for this book?"

I was lucky enough to be the lady that was asked to be Maria in the Sound Of Music, and that film was fortunate enough to be huge hit. The same with Mary Poppins. I got terribly lucky in that respect.

The anateur works until they get something right. The professional works until they can't go wrong.

I have always wished I could learn to be a potter. I love collecting ceramics; it would be so fulfilling to create something lovely.

The world is full of magical places, and the library has always been one of them for me. A library can be that special place for our children.

Mary Poppins is magical and fun.

As a rule, my focus is on classical music, but I love jazz. I love everything, actually.