In my books, my idea is always to explore social context and social forces.

Within walking distance of any spot on Earth there's probably more than enough mystery to investigate in a lifetime.

Sexism goes so deep that at first it's hard to see; you think it's just reality.

Fiction is ideally suited to re-creating the important emotional aspects of history.

There is still nothing like equality for women in jobs, in family. There's just an awareness that inequality is not acceptable.

My mirror image always had to be interpreted. And for that I sought my reflection in someone else's eyes.

Being alone for a woman is probably much more scary than for a man. I'm all for getting over our fears by facing them head-on.

Everything is connected. There is no such thing as an island, especially in our world, global village, the whole thing. Pollution from way across the ocean circulates in the air.

Many people spend the ends of their lives alone, and probably a lot of years in the middle of their lives, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to experience the rewards of solitude.

Usually, ordinary histories don't get the emotional feel of a period. That's what a novel can do.

One important part of historical recording is to get people of another generation to understand the feelings, the passion that went into social transformation. That's why oral history is so valuable.

My heart no longer felt as if it belonged to me. It now felt as it had been stolen, torn from my chest by someone who wanted no part of it.

For everything there is a reason. Just go and search it in the big mess!

Building a relationship is rare..' Make the commitment wholeheartedly. Just do it and do it for both of you. Love doesn't have to be perfect, but it needs to be true.

It doesn't matter if you're famous or infamous. All that matters is you're a celebrity.

I also watched a lot of football and sports. I haven't had much time to watch too much TV lately.

The goal of effective communication should be for listeners to say, 'Me, too!' versus 'So what?'

Sometimes I envy religious people for the comfort of believing. It would make everything so much easier.

I grew up as a little 4- and 5-year-old kid, watching Phil Tippett and my dad make monsters in our garage. That's what I did, as a child.

I'm so afraid to love you, But more afraid to lose. Clinging to a past that doesn't let me chose.

Each day begins with a prayer of thank you.