I come to writing the same way I come to teaching, which is that my goal is always to create life-long readers.

I can try to disable it," I said, "but if I mess up, this whole apartment is going to fill with gas. We'll die." Thalia swallowed. " I trust you. Just... don't mess it up.

Nico leaned over and plucked a grape. Probably that was the guy’s entire diet for the day.

My brother broke into a toothy grin. "Yay! Your brain works!

Before I could lose my courage, I said, "Don't I get a kiss for luck? It's kind of a tradition, right?" I figured she would punch me. Instead, she drew her knife and stared at the army marching toward us. "Come back alive, Seaweed Brain. Then, we'll see.

At first I was protecting you two because I promised. Now even if I hadn't promised, I would. You two are like kittens to me. I won't fail you again." I'll admit I got a lump in my throat. I'd never been called someone's kitten before. Sadie sniffled. She brushed something from under her eye. "You're not going to wash us, are you?

I have to be careful. My readers are very detail-oriented, and if I make a mistake they'll call me on it.