“if you want to convince children of the power of books, don’t tell them stories are good. Tell them a good story.”

“Tell them stories. They need the truth you must tell them true stories, and everything will be well, just tell them stories.”

“Never tell a story because it is true: tell it because it is a good story.”

“I like a good story well told. That is the reason I am sometimes forced to tell them myself.”

“Good writing is remembering detail. Most people want to forget. Don't forget things that were painful or embarrassing or silly. Turn them into a story that tells the truth.”

“You will and should do everything in your power to improve your actual writing skills. You’ll work hard to create characters that are compelling and unforgettable. But in the end, it’s the story that matters. Don’t ever let the other stuff get in the way of your inherent skills as a kick-butt storyteller. Move the reader, make them happy and sad and excited and scared. Make them stare into space after they’ve put the book down, thinking about the tale that’s become a part of them. Be unpredictable, be real, be interesting. Tell a good story.”