You have only so many chances to tell stories. I didn't want to be forever wedded to one form of storytelling when there are so many out there.

You have only so many chances to tell stories. I didn't want to be forever wedded to one form of storytelling when there are so many out there.

In terms of characters I wish I had created - just because I haven't dealt with anything like them - I'm really impressed by characters who can endure over time, whether that be a long series run like a Harry Bosch, or a character who endures over generations and continues to please readers: Sherlock Holmes.

I think if you looked at the kind of ebb and flow of supernatural fiction and horror fiction, it does seem to be more popular in times when were hammered over the head daily with threats from all angles, very real threats.

You should be writing for the love of the story, and when it comes time to return to the manuscript, everything else belongs behind a closed door.

We understand tornadoes scientifically, but it still feels supernatural. The randomness makes it feel supernatural.

For 'So Cold the River,' I'm actually working on adapting the book with Scott Silver, who was just nominated for an Oscar for 'The Fighter,' and who also wrote '8 Mile,' which I think is a terrific screenplay. The chance to work with Scott is a tremendous pleasure and I'm learning a lot.