Women in leadership positions in every field who are using their advantages to inspire younger women.

“Most admiring” an individual may depend upon knowing her—or him—only at a distance. Public personalities may be the easiest to admire, for obvious reasons. Michelle Obama has seemed to me enormously admirable, like President Obama. And—of course!—Oprah, a great American original. Among people whom I know personally, & have known for some time, Gloria Vanderbilt is most admirable. There are too many things to say about Gloria to fit this space—& indeed I have said a good deal about Gloria in the past—but she is one of the most remarkable persons of my acquaintance. Equally admirable, among my friends who are “known” to the public, whom nonetheless I know as individuals, is Steve Martin, remarkable also for the diversity of his talent(s). But what is most impressive about Steve is that, greatly gifted as he is in comedy, his comic vision is essentially unifying—radiantly goofy, never injurious to anyone. It has become a rare comedy that doesn’t trade upon marginalizing & insulting others & it is really quite remarkable how through his long career Steve has never insulted, hurt, or objectified anyone else for the sake of laughter.

Mum and Dad, for staying true to their love; sister, for combining integrity and humour; brother, for never being afraid; and my best mate, for showing true loyalty.

There are far too many to choose.

The moment I realised I knew how to read. I was five.

I’ve been awake almost my entire life. I have had insomnia since I was a child.

The supreme court. Specifically the case Bush v Gore, which is where Sandra Day O’Connor – one person – decided the presidential election.

Rodents – including the tiniest mouse.

I just hate to work, so I can’t choose one.

That I’ve never killed anyone – and I’ve been tempted numerous times. My other achievement is that I went to Australia, which meant I was on a plane without smoking for almost 24 hours, and I didn’t kill anyone on that flight.