Despite the obstacles of race and class, I was always taught that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. African-American writers, for me, were a beacon, a guiding force.

The writer writes about what happened in order to make it make sense, to put it in perspective, to turn it into art; and art becomes the vehicle on which we ride out the truth of our experiences.

With Time, you can create Money, but with Money you cannot create Time. So Time is more valuable than Money.

We think because we have words, not the other way around. The more words we have, the better able we are to think conceptually.

Till now I have never shot a scene without taking account of what stands behind the actors because the relationship between people and their surroundings is of prime importance.

I haven't had a drink in twelve days and I've gotta say, I'm pretty shocked at how boring people are.

I make no claim to be an authority on writing or illustrating for children.

Sometimes, I think if you get away from what you're called to do, it's more of a distraction.

Conviction is a force multiplier. If you want something, claim it in your gut. The universe itself responds to your inner certainty.

Advertisers in general bear a large part of the responsibility for the deep feelings of inadequacy that drive women to psychiatrists, pills, or the bottle.

I had the privilege of living most of my life in a small town.

My parents are both teachers, so we had the summers off.