The Apple Pie Hubbub was a significant novel for me, because that's when I first started using verbs.

I believe in eight of the ten commandments. I believe in going to church every Sunday... unless there's a game on.

The thing about the banjo is when you first hear it, it strikes many people as what's that? There's something very compelling about it to certain people.

I loved to make people laugh in high school, and then I found I loved being on stage in front of people. I'm sure that's some kind of ego trip or a way to overcome shyness. I was very kind of shy and reserved, so there's a way to be on stage and be performing and balance your life out.

I really enjoy finding the right word, creating a good, flowing sentence. I enjoy the rhythm of the words.

I thought yesterday was the first day of the rest of my life but it turns out today is.

[her] mind blackens. The blackness is not a thought, but if it could be pressed into a thought, if a chemical from a dropper could be dripped onto it causing its color and essence to become visible, it would take the shape of this sentence: Why does no one want me?