If I learned anything in this life, I've learned that you can't cling on.

Encouraging young people to believe in themselves and find their own voice whether it's through writing, drama or art is so important in giving young people a sense of self-worth.

A lot of children, like I did, move away from words because of the fear - which is something you have to take out of education: the fear of worrying about what marks you'll get, detention, worrying about letting people down, your parents, teachers.

There's a nobility in his eye, a regal serenity about him. Does he not personify all that men try to be and never can be?

Characters are the key to a good book. It took me several novels to comprehend that.

Always write your ideas down however silly or trivial they might seem. Keep a notebook with you at all times.

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