“(CBI lecture, Dublin, 2008. Speaking on the challenges presented by The Moorehawke Trilogy to the YA reader)You can't choose any of these characters and say, 'Yes! I'm completely on your side. You are the good guy! You are the one I agree with.' Because at some stage along the way every single one of these characters will let you down. They may not want to. They may have no choice. But they will let you down.”

“If your looking for that one special person still don't stop trying you will find that person it may not be today or tomorrow but the day will come ur a beautiful girl don't let any one but you down just keep ur head up and keep on walking any guy whould be lucky to have you. people may call you names but all ways keep in mine ur in this world for a reason”

“What you are as a single person, you will be as a married person, only to a greater degree. Any negative character trait will be intensified in a marriage relationship, because you will feel free to let your guard down -- that person has committed himself to you and you no longer have to worry about scaring him off.”

“Love Jo all your days, if you choose, but don't let it spoil you, for it's wicked to throw away so many good gifts because you can't have the one you want.”

“When you start writing, you may think you will use the book to guide readers down certain paths and through certain themes. But, the characters will take on a life of their own and steer you down unforeseen paths where you will have a startling encounter with yourself.”

“You can't let God down because you are not the one holding him up”