When we read together, we connect. Together, we see the world. Together, we see one another.

I will be brave, thought Despereaux. I will try to be brave like a knight in shining armour. I will be brave for the Princess Pea.

The origin of each story is unique.

In a dark time, doors will sometimes magically open and let us step inside to the warmth and light of a community.

It is a bad thing to have love and nowhere to put it.

I am just always, always paying attention - waiting for the words, or image, or name that will be the beginning of a story.

Like most hearts, it was complicated, shaded with dark and dappled with light.