For how many generations now had his people been turning their backs on things? How long had they sat in their living rooms and watched other people die?

Lively, intelligent, and quite immature, [Emily] usually burst out with exactly the comment that summed up the situation beautifully and therefore could never in politeness be said.

Don't fret. We'll just have to find something else you're good at besides killing people.

Mom actually said that? Cassie's face shown with happiness. She always hated my math! Nah, Martin said. She was just being that way for you. She thought it was what you needed to hear. If parents told us what they really think about stuff, we could figure them out like regular people.

Being a writer means crying over the sad parts, even though you already know it’s going to be okay.

That's exactly how I want you to feel. When you finish this book, I want you to be filled with curiosity. I want you to say, “I have to find out what happens next,” and then I want you to head to your nearest library or bookstore to pick up a copy of Wuthering Heights.

Forks are absurd, he scoffed. They insult your food. They make it think you're killing it twice.

Mom actually said that? Cassie's face shown with happiness. She always hated my math!

Em, I am trying to have an important conversation! shouted Seylin. I will not change into a cat!