Quite frankly, I think political correctness is the worst form of censorship. You're not allowed to speak your mind unless you're black, or unless you're a terrorist, or unless you're an Arab or a minority people. Then you can say what you like. But if you are like a lot of us you are not supposed to say certain things.

I put my soul into every book I write.

The really disturbing thing about Somalia is that in a country where there are few economic opportunities, pirates are perceived as glamorous and are held in awe by young boys who aspire to their lifestyle.

When I vacate this sack of old bones I won't care what you do with it. Bury or burn it but don't make much fuss.

I am a closet birdwatcher. I can identify Southern African species, but it irks me I can barely tell a jay from a blackbird in the U.K.

My first novel was rejected by some of the most eminent publishers in the world. Starting again was a real wrench.

I love the sea as much as I love the veldt of Africa.