I feel like myself, strong and weak at once - allowed, at least for a little while, to be both.

Seeing people who are actually reading your book and listening to the wide variety of reactions they have to it, is really special.

If someone offer you an opportunity to get closer to your enemy, you always take it.

Yes," she says, her eyes bright with tears. "My dear child, you've done so well.

Human beings as a whole cannot be good for long before the bad creeps back in and poisons us again.

We are not people who touch each other carelessly; every point of contact between us feels important, a rush of energy and relief.

I watch her blond head until it disappears around the bend, and I feel bare, like there's nothing left to protect me against pain. Her absence stings worst of all.