We all know that the great memories of our childhood are the little triumphs - it doesn't really matter whether that was in writing, art, on the hockey field or on the football field. It's something that makes you feel - 'I can do this stuff'.

Animals are sentient, intelligent, perceptive, funny and entertaining. We owe them a duty of care as we do to children.

I don't want to be separate from something that's important to me.

Children have to be motivated to want to learn to read. Reading must not be taught simply as a school exercise.

That's what sailing is, a dance, and your partner is the sea. And with the sea you never take liberties. You ask her, you don't tell her. You have to remember always that she's the leader, not you. You and your boat are dancing to her tune.

We're much alike, bee, you and me," I said. "You may carry your pack underneath you and your rifle may stick out of your bottom. But you and me, bee, are much alike.

Live an interesting life. Meet people. Read a lot and widely, learn from the great writers