As a schoolboy, I loved Charles Dickens. His 'David Copperfield' has had the strongest influence on me - I looked up to David Copperfield as a role model.
and when all the wars are over, a butterfly will still be beautiful.
I won't usually just sit down to write. I'd have done it in my head already. I visualise a story just like a film strip running in my head. I guess that is also a reason why my books have such a visual element to them. And it's what I tell young writers: plan your story ahead.
I like talking to visitors, especially children.
Unhappy and unsettled childhood helps in writing.
No, I don't want to be a brand. Brand means I cannot go out for a quiet walk without tourists and fans constantly following me.