Military folk," Neal said with exaggerated patience, shaking his head. "The only way you know to solve problems is by beating them with a stick.

We live in a dark time. Books are as dark as what is available to teenagers through the media every day.

You have an audience that is fairly well grounded in the real world. You serve them and yourself best by making everything as real as possible.

Moral issues rarely have yes or no answers. -Myles to Alanna when she asks about the Gift

Fear is a good thing. It mean you're paying attention.

You mortals are like fish swimming in a globe of glass. That globe is your world. You do not see beyond it.

If her rump were any stiffer, she'd break it every time she rides', I thought to Pounce. 'If she fell on the steps, they would never be able to put her together again', he replied.