Books cost money because they are items of value, and I think that in our hunger for deals and discounts we have forgotten what value is.

There aren’t many things in life better than books, tea and cake.

They are a brilliant device for shape-shifting as we can slip into the skin of authors from other times, other cultural backgrounds, brilliant minds who give us a new perspective on life and the world – something we all need from time to time. – Cornelia Funke.

Who wouldn’t want to get married in a room full of love stories?

And if I had a bookshop of my own? Well, it wouldn’t make any money. So I am no help to anyone. But I would set it somewhere with a garden, where light poured in through the windows. Sit in the sun, I’d tell my customers. Open this book. Try it. It won’t do any harm, after all, to sit a while and read.

Because hearts are meant to be crushed, and you cannot hide them anywhere for love, nor money. Especially not love.

So... in the beginning... In the beginning there was nothing. Not a ripple moved throughout the Universe because there were no atoms, and there was no energy. And then – because that’s always how things go – and then. And then there was something.

CUSTOMER: Do you have any Robin Hood stories where he doesn’t steal from the rich? My husband’s called Robin and I’d like to buy him a copy for his birthday, but he’s a banker, so...

Because whether we’re in the middle of the desert or in the heart of a city, or the top of a mountain or on an underground train: having good stories to keep us company means the whole world.

I figure whatever I choose to create, I’ll be neglecting somebody – so my art may as well make me happy. – Audrey Niffenegger.