Why did so many grown-ups want to be young, she wondered, when it took so long to grow old? It was like going on a million-mile road trip then wanting to turn around without getting out of the car.

You must have your wits about you. No wandering minds allowed.

Generally speaking, books don't cause much harm. Except when you read them, that is. Then they cause all kinds of problems. Books can, for example, give you ideas. I don't know if you've ever had an idea before, but, if you have, you know how much trouble an idea can get you into.

Oh, talking is not so bad as that," said the Jester. "True, most people say only silly things when they speak. But it's easier to ignore them if you're saying silly things yourself.

Not all novelists are power-hungry madman. Some are power-hungry madwomen.

It was like walking into a treasure trove of books, hoarded by pirate librarians.

Some secrets are meant to be known- but once known you can never forget them.