Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.

I write for young girls of color, for girls who don't even exist yet, so that there is something there for them when they arrive. I can only change how they live, not how they think.

I started questioning gender-based assumptions a long time ago. When I was eight, I was confused at being called “bossy,” because I wanted to direct the plays that we would put on for our parents — but the boys were not.

I always try to be myself. Ever since I was an introverted kid, I'd get on stage and be able to break out of my shell.

If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive.

Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.