A lot of times, I faced bullies - or the 'big dogs' at school. What I wanted 'Red Rising' to be is not necessarily an indictment on bullies, but it reflects my experiences and attitudes that I had with bullies growing up.

I was learning the craft; I didn't study writing in school. Rejection was my motivation, and failure is what taught me.

When you look at a lot of the military histories, and even modern military history, everyone pretty much refers to each other by nicknames.

My editor's main job is to cut down my worldbuilding. There's so much fun stuff in there, you know?

Education is very important, and I understand that.

Smartness runs in my family. When I went to school I was so smart my teacher was in my class for five years.

There are amazing schools and amazing educators that are doing a wonderful job. And then there are a lot of educators that are not prepared to deal with inclusive education. They haven't been trained. It's really quite lovely and easy when you understand how to do it.

There is a great reform required in the education and habits of females.