I've always been fascinated by the grassroots folktale level of a culture, and as a storyteller, I have to follow what seems to be leading me on.

He will apologize, or I'll give him a lesson in swordplay he will not like at all.

It was too important a matter, this talking to people, and listening to them, to do it lightly or often.

But it was equally clear to her that this was her fate, that she had called its name and it had come to her, and she could do nothing now but own it.

What I write, if you have to label it, is crossover, and I think that much of the stuff that is called children's or YA is in fact crossover and is equally valid for anyone who likes to read fantasy.

It's hard to look too grand when you're led by someone who looks like a pudding with legs.

Sungold blew impatiently and began to dig a hole with one foot. She booted his elbow with her toe and he stopped, but after a moment he lowered his head and blew again, harder, and she could feel him shifting his weight, considering if she might let him dig just a small hole.