I was one of the first six black kids to integrate a formerly all-white school. I remember being looked at all the time and people laughing at my hair. I was also very self-conscious about the food I had for lunch. I had egg sandwiches, and the other mothers gave kids fancy stuff like bologna and Marmite. It took about a year to settle in.

I actually don't sleep much; I only need about four hours a night.

I wonder why people commit crimes that are premeditated - to gain love, because of hatred, or for financial reasons.

Petina Gappah Quotes