Money doesn't make you happy, but it gives a zone of comfort around you.

We're nothing if we're not loved. When you meet somebody who is more important to you than yourself, that has to be the most important thing.

I once got a huge, expensive flower arrangement from a person I didn't like, who sent it out of pure guilt. It had a hideous bird-of-paradise in the middle, and I thought it would never fade and die. I hated it.

In my stories, whenever there's somebody wonderful and charming and bright and intelligent, that's me!

I think I was dealt a good hand. I have happy genes.

When my sister Joan arrived, I asked if I could swap her for a rabbit. When I think what a marvellous friend she's been, I'm so glad my parents didn't take me at my word.

I don't have ugly ducklings turning into swans in my stories. I have ugly ducklings turning into confident ducks.