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

If you woke up each morning, and immediately dwelt on your ills, what sort of a day could you look forward to?

I don't think you're happier if you're thin or beautiful or rich or married. You have to make your own happiness. My heroines do not become beautiful elegant swans, they become confident ducks and get on with life.

I think you've got to play the hand that you're dealt and stop wishing for another hand.

My brother married young, and his is the best marriage I know.

The whole art of life is knowing the right time to say things.

When I was younger, I avoided exercise or anything strenuous. I didn't even enjoy walking. As I got older, I spent so much time marking books or sitting at a desk writing that there was no room for exercise - not that I would have bothered anyway.