“I believe that the combination of pencil and memory creates a kind of practical magic, and magic is dangerous.”

“But I believe in love, you know; love is a uniquely portable magic. I don’t think it’s in the stars, but I do believe that blood calls to blood and mind calls to mind and heart to heart.”

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

“Just remember that Dumbo didn't need the feather; the magic was in him. ”

“I’m often asked if I think the beginning writer of fiction can benefit from writing classes or seminars. The people who ask are, all too often, looking for a magic bullet or a secret ingredient or possibly Dumbo’s magic feather, none of which can be found in classrooms or at writing retreats, no matter how enticing the brochures may be.”

“Time continued to pass - the oldest trick in the world, and maybe the only one that really is magic.”

“Kids, fiction is the truth inside the lie, and the truth of this fiction is simple enough: the magic exists.”