Some authors, when starting a novel, imagine a place first. Others, a character starts taking shape in their head. I start with a hook, a situation, a 'what if.

I was filling entire school notebooks with stories by Grade 3. Of course, they were double-spaced, and the handwriting was huge.

Facebook, from what I can tell, is the virtual equivalent of dropping into the homes of several million people, all of whom say at the same time: 'Hey! Let's set up the slide projector!

My life isn't much different than when I worked full time as a journalist.

Sometimes, it's easier to tell a stranger something very personal. It's like there's less risk, opening yourself up to someone who doesn't know you.

All the places my mind took me were places I did not want to go.

It's hard to make things right for everyone.""But if everybody helped just one person, lots of people would get helped.

Life is so much richer, so very much more meaningful, if you plant yourself in a place that will nourish you.

I don’t talk much because talking without thought is not talking at all,

Education brings about opportunity, and in turn inspiration.

If you're going to miss 'em, miss 'em quick.

Ice is nice at any price.

Whoever can't see the whole in every part plays at blind man's bluff. A wise man tastes the entire Tigris in every sip.

The stars were out in full, the crickets a little quieter. He had enjoyed talking to Allie and wondered what she'd thought about his life, hoping it would somehow make a difference, if it could.

I don't wear my faith on my sleeve, but I definitely do walk with it every day in my heart.

Do you seriously envision St. Paul or Calvin or Luther opening bottles of Welch's Grape Juice in the sacristy before the service? Luther at least would turn over in his grave.

I'm romantic to some degree, if I really like somebody. I'm more romantic if there's someone that I like than I am a romantic just for romantics sake.