Major theme of the book ["Hotels of North America"], from my point of view: what is persona, what is self, in the digital sphere, and/or what is the effect of it on self in a prolonged interaction.

The idea to make hotel reviews the form of the novel came first. So I just started writing hotel reviews and tried to come up with a consistent voice.

I don't know exactly how long the book as we know it will exist, but I fully expect to make it to my death without having to give up on books.

I'm trying to make sure that there's comedy as well as sadness. It makes the sadness more memorable.

I judged about a zillion awards this year so Ive been reading a lot of books that just came out.

I suppose I should say that I treasure blasphemy, as a faith of the highest order.

I have admired Melissa Pritchard's writing for several years now for its wisdom, its humble elegance, and its earthy comedy.