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.

Anything that gets children reading is fine.

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

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

Any problem can be solved between people if only they can trust each other

Don't worry about writing a book or getting famous or making money. Just lead an interesting life.

But try as I might, I never got to eat any of her pastries, and do you know, she never even offered me one.