Writing the opening lines of a story is a bit like starting to ski at the steepest part of a hill. You must have all your skills under control from the first instant.

Human beings are storytelling animals. That's what separates us from other creatures, not just having thumbs or using tools.

Description needs to slide into a story like a snake through grass - silently, almost invisibly, without calling attention to itself. It should enrich every story moment without slowing the action.

Never think of revising as fixing something that is wrong. That starts you off in a negative frame of mind. Rather think of it as an opportunity to improve something you already love.

I used to tiptoe up to my bedroom door and leap into my room in an attempt to surprise my dolls in the midst of some kind of action. Unfortunately, they were always too quick for me. I'm still disappointed about that.

when you are dealing with art, any kind of art, your pleasure in making it is what matters most.

Where do storytellers find the wisdom to discover their own stories? From no place more mysterious than their own hearts.