I learned when I was a student in Connecticut. I had an Italian-American teacher who gave me classes for a week, and then said, "Okay, you're ready." And I wasn't ready. I didn't know how to drive!. But he knew the policeman who gave the test. And that's how I got through.
Sandra CisnerosMy idea was always to start with a small press and then move up to a national press. I had those goals for my career from the time I was a very young woman. I wanted to win a local award, then I wanted a state or national award. Small press, big press. Some women fantasize about their weddings, their husbands, and children. I fantasized about what I wanted to accomplish with my books.
Sandra CisnerosYou know, you want to be outrageous when you're young, so all the young people say, "Oooh . . ." Now my tactics are different.
Sandra CisnerosWhen I'm starting to feel, "How many more people are there?" I go slower. I ask questions, and that person engaging with me gives me energy.
Sandra Cisneros