I try to have reasonably happy endings because I would hate any child to be cast down in gloom and despair; I want to show them you can find a way out of it.

I had to cope with her right from when I was little, I looked after her and you.

These awards provide an opportunity for children to thank the adults that have had a positive impact on their life.

I feel the city let us down by not informing us. I don't think the tower should be put over here. It should be in a commercial area.

Winning the Guardian prize is a wonderful reward for any writer. It is such a distinguished award, ... All authors want to know what other authors think of their books and they also like to know what children like, too.

While some of my other books have sold more widely, Midnight seems to be the most passionately loved. There's something about its secret, rather dark fairy world that appeals very strongly.