I guess when someone tells you something they they usually guard, you feel privileged, not because you know something no-one else knows, but because you feel chosen. You feel like that person wants her life to intersect with yours. I think that's what felt best about it.

The book thief has struck for the first time – the beginning of an illustrious career.

People have defining moments, i suppose, especially when they're children.

I read some books that were the right books for me. I read them and I didn't even notice turning the pages anymore. I thought, "That's what I want to do with my life."

Like most misery, it started with apparent happiness.

There were not many people who could say that their education had been paid for with cigarettes.

Very suddenly. Yes, quite suddenly, I didn't feel like I could handle my feeling of aloneness.