“Clear water sped over rocky clusters whose colors ran from ivories to mossy greens, blues and grays. Though clouds covered the sun, the sway of dappling evergreens gave the water sparkle.”

“My writing style has changed dramatically over the years, growing increasingly clean and exact. I like to think that I'm still improving -- that each book I write is a new personal best.”

“I had nothing to fear from my father.Except his disappointment.Which was no small thing.”

“Rain didn't make things messy. People did that all on their own.”

“But you don't know what I want, do you. You formed an idea of who I am and What I do, and you've woven that idea in your life. You may listen to my words, but you don't hear my thoughts. You don't hear my needs. You don't see me. You haven't seen me in years.”

“I can't spend the rest of my life competing for your attention and coming in last.”

“Concentrating when it's the hardest is what builds character”