Caroline Leavitt

Literature can allow us to experience the best side of humankind, where instead of giving up, we struggle desperately in the ruins for love, connection and hope.

I had a writing professor at Brandeis who told me I'd never make it - and when I sold my first novel a few years later, I sent him a copy!

I was a bookworm who aced every test - until third grade, when my teacher handed out a pop quiz about Jesus and the Apostles.

I've always been very determined, ever since I was a little girl, to make my way.

I cannot cook to save my life. I'm really frighteningly useless, when you get down to it.

No one will ever shine in conversation, who thinks of saying fine things: to please, one must say many things indifferent, and many very bad.