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

My memory of my home was that it was very happy, and that there was more fun and life there than there was anywhere else.

You can't lay down laws for what people think and hope.

I look placid, you see, that's why people think I'm fine. Inside I worry a lot.

The biggest influence on my books was the fact that I had worked in a newspaper for so long. In a daily paper, you learn to write very quickly; there is no time to sit and brood about what you are going to say.

I have always believed that life is too short for rows and disagreements. Even if I think I'm right, I would prefer to apologize and remain friends rather than win and be an enemy.

I was the big, bossy older sister, full of enthusiasms, mad fantasies, desperate urges to be famous, and anxious to be a saint - a settled sort of saint, not one who might have to suffer or die for her faith.