I consciously try to end my novels at a point where I won't have to wonder about my characters ever again.

I think it must be very hard to be one of the new young writers who are urged to put themselves forward when it may be the last thing on earth they'd be good at.

Ever consider what pets must think of us? I mean, here we come back from a grocery store with the most amazing haul - chicken, pork, half a cow. They must think we're the greatest hunters on earth!

She worded it a bit strongly, but I do find myself more and more struck by the differences between the sexes. To put it another way: All marriages are mixed marriages.

Sometimes it's so weird just to do an interview. This morning I was back in my parents' house, with my brother, and we went for a jog together, then had breakfast as a family. And a couple of hours later I'm wearing high heels and a dress and makeup, and talking about my job.

St. John's University has meant so much to me and my family.

I was brought up with a lot of love in my family, and I've always been supported. My family has always protected me in a sort of manic way.

My father was always depressed. When he was home and sober, he was mostly in his room.