I used to go up to her house. She lived upstate [in New York] and I lived in Manhattan; you're living in a lot of noise and my career was being built. For me to spend time with Nina [Simone] is to spend a lot of quiet time.

We are less lonely when we connect. Art is connection.

We believe 'Peter Rabbit' because Beatrix Potter believes it. You have to.

I grow old though pleased with my memories The tasks I can no longer complete Are balanced by the love of the tasks gone past I offer no apology only this plea: When I am frayed and strained and drizzle at the end Please someone cut a square and put me in a quilt That I might keep some child warm And some old person with no one else to talk to Will hear my whispers And cuddle near

Language instruction should start in the first grade. Writing, also.

I don't have a life-style, I have a life.

Libraries...house our dreams.