I want to make sure that the first person you kiss loves you, okay?

And even if she says no, and really means yes, then quite frankly she's playing games and isn't worth the price of dinner.

Part of the reason I wrote the book was I wanted to understand for myself why such good people let themselves get treated so badly.

The inside jokes weren't jokes anymore. they had become stories

The reason I am thinking so far in advance is because school is terribly lonely. I think I've said that before, but it's getting harder every day.

I look at people holdings hands in the hallways, and I try to think how it all works. At the school dances, I sit in the background, and I tap my toe, and I wonder how many couples will dance to ‘their song.’ In the hallways, I see the girls wearing the guys’ jackets, and I think about the idea of property. And I wonder if anyone is really happy.

I don't think we should base so much on weight, muscles, and a good hair day, but when it happens, it's nice. It really is.