His speech failed to rouse an enthusiastic cheer, but no one dared contradict him.

But chance runs like a river through all our lives, and being prepared for surprise is the best we can do.

We did it!" I said, feeling limp with relief. "It actually worked!" Dr. Turgenev rubbed his forehead. "I had very big doubts." "Big doubts?" I said weakly. The Russian scientist shrugged. "I am pessimist," he said.

It was as though, in one moment, he had become a stranger. And I a stranger to myself.

It's somewhat disquieting that the same parents and educators who are horrified by the notion of child soldiers have bestowed upon 'The Hunger Games' a double mantle of critical praise and global bestsellerdom.

I believe there is something on this earth that you desire more than anything, and it isn't me.

I prefer the word aviatrix. It has more zing to it." "It's very zingy," I agreed.