As a teacher, what was the most important thing you wanted to give to the children?

I was very anxious to give the girls I taught confidence, to tell them that they were responsible for their own lives. It didn’t matter about being married, or rich or good looking or thin, inner happiness is what we create for ourselves. Of course I am sure they didn’t believe me – who believes a school teacher – but if there was a way of telling them that I would be happy. I try to do it in my books now. Women don’t need to be rescued, they rescue themselves.