Johnny almost grinned as he nodded. "Tuff enough," he managed, and by the way his eyes were glowing, I figured Southern gentlemen had nothing on Johnny Cade.

I think that The Outsiders was meant to be written, and I was just picked to write it.

All of a sudden it felt like people were peering over my shoulder, wondering what I would write next. I was blocked for four years.

I am a greaser. I am a JD and a hood. I blacken the name of our fair city. I beat up people. I rob gas stations. I am a menace to society. Man do I have fun!

I learned that if you want to get somewhere, you just make up your mind and work like hell til you get there.

I really do like listening to stuff that's happened to other people. I guess that's why I like to read.

They grew up on the outside of society. They weren't looking for a fight. They were looking to belong.