I come from a family who prided themselves, both sides, on memory. And I was told growing up, constantly, that I was born with a really good memory.

I've been really fortunate that I've been at a lot of critical crossroads in my musical journey. When I look back, there are some pretty interesting things to look at.

There is an extraordinary collaborative spirit when you are learning and growing.

A lot of times when you're making a record, you put your head down and charge forward until you're done. You just hope that the ideas hold up, because you're kind of lost in your own storm.

Massachusetts children cannot only lead the nation in test scores, they can be competitive with the best in the world. And the gap in achievement among races can virtually disappear.

The success of 'The Shadow of the Wind' made me very happy, but it did not change my perspective or the way I was.

When the success of 'Crazy Rich' hit, it's like everybody knows exactly who you are, and the way that they speak to you is different. I've stayed the same throughout. It's just people's perception of you changes.

I just pinch myself, because I think if there's anything I can be proud of, I've survived success, which I think is difficult these days.