My sense of the family history is somewhat sketchy, because my mother kept a great deal to herself.

The film industry is a cyclical business. Even musicals are coming back.

I have been called a nun with a switchblade where my privacy is concerned. I think there's a point where one says, that's for family, that's for me.

In a way I do hate the process of writing. It's like learning a role where you never think you're going to be able to conquer it when you start and it just takes enough focus and narrowing and getting enthusiastic and not losing it and so on. It's never good enough, but you aim for something and you hope it comes somewhat close. But it is a pleasure once you have written it.

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 you're passionate about what you do, then go for it wholeheartedly. Be prepared that if anytime, you may be surprised by a phenomenal opportunity that may come your way, and that's when I say, do your homework. Be ready.

Don't you get a swollen head. There's always someone who could come and do what you do, maybe even better, so be grateful and work hard.