I really like feeling connected to people and feeling like I have a good, solid sense of empathy.

I love the idea of numerology, but I don't really believe in it. But I like thinking about what numbers convey.

Some creative writing programs seem evil, but my experience at Irvine was totally the opposite, where I feel like they were really good at focusing in on each writers voice and setting. When I felt like I was obligated to write a story that was more typical, no one really liked it.

When language is treated beautifully and interestingly, it can feel good for the body: It's nourishing; it's rejuvenating.

Novels are so much unrulier and more stressful to write. A short story can last two pages and then it's over, and that's kind of a relief. I really like balancing the two.

I noticed, when I taught elementary school, how true the squeaky wheel thing is, and how endearing squeaky wheels can be! Because when you're being a squeaky wheel, you're also really letting people know who you are.