If I think about the writers I love or might be influenced by, I can't write at all, so I pretend there aren't any.

I've always thought it was important not to attach too much superstition to the space where you're writing, because once you get into the mindset that you can only do it a certain way in a certain place, your creativity can get blocked.

I have a study now - I used not to. I also love working in cafes; ignoring noise is good for concentration.

When I was a child, I wanted to raise horses in Wyoming or be a cabin boy on a pirate ship.

I dont get distracted until the weight of other things left undone finally tips the balance; my mind is flooded with calls, bills, supermarkets, letters, and I have to stop and sort things out.

When Im writing, I spend all my time in The Grocer on Elgin buying ready-made meals; I think they are the only reason my husband and kids havent left me.

Oh, I always think everyone feels left out.