Most of my books have been about the complex ways an individual depends on community.

I don't bring expectations to any of my books. I don't tell people what to do. I want to invite them in.

Most every book I bring into the world is like birthing a baby; it's a lot of effort!

I can count all the ways in which being a mother has enriched my understanding of the world, of character, my sense of the future and my attachment to it. I can't imagine what kind of writer I'd be if I didn't have my kids.

I do my best work if I think about what it is I have to offer.

Few people know so clearly what they want. Most people can't even think what to hope for when they throw a penny in a fountain.