It was almost December, and Jonas was beginning to be frightened.

The mind can’t explain it, and you can’t make it go away. It’s called love.

If you were to be lost in the river, Jonas, your memories would not be lost with you. Memories are forever.

Early on I came to realize something, and it came from the mail I received from kids. That is, kids at that pivotal age, 12, 13 or 14, they're still deeply affected by what they read, some are changed by what they read, books can change the way they feel about the world in general. I don't think that's true of adults as much.

It is very risky. But each time a child opens a book, he pushes open the gate that separates him from Elsewhere.

For a contributing citizen to be released from the community was a final decision, a terrible punishment, an overwhelming statement of failure.

I think I've written 40 books, and none of them have been heavy on action. I'm an introspective person.