I never wanted to be mainstream as a writer, but look at what's happened.

I'll tell you, there is nothing better in life than being a late bloomer. I believe that success can happen at any time and at any age.

At the age of four with paper hats and wooden swords we're all Generals. Only some of us never grow out of it.

My inspiration was my mom. She's a great cook, and she still cooks, and we still banter back and forth about cooking. Growing up in a mostly Portuguese community, food was important and the family table was extremely important. At a very young age I understood that.

The great book for you is the book that has the most to say to you at the moment when you are reading. I do not mean the book that is most instructive, but the book that feeds your spirit. And that depends on your age, your experience, your psychological and spiritual need.