From age nine, my friends and I were on the streets, walking home, going to each other's houses, going to the store. I really wanted to write about that: the independence that's a little bit scary but also a really positive thing in a lot of ways.

In this quote, Rebecca Stead reflects on her childhood experiences and the sense of independence she developed from a young age. She describes how, starting at the age of nine, she and her friends were free to roam the streets, walk home, visit each other’s houses, and go to the store. This freedom to explore and navigate the world on their own, without constant supervision, played a crucial role in shaping her understanding of personal autonomy and responsibility.

Stead acknowledges that this independence could be scary at times, as it involved stepping out of a controlled or protected environment into the unknown. However, she also highlights the positive aspects of this experience. The ability to make decisions on her own and the self-reliance that came with it offered opportunities for personal growth and confidence. Stead suggests that this balance of freedom and risk is both challenging and rewarding.

The quote also reveals Stead’s desire to write about these experiences. She seems drawn to exploring how independence can shape a person’s identity and development. Her interest in capturing this journey likely stems from recognizing how formative moments of autonomy can be, especially during childhood when one is beginning to understand their own capabilities and limitations.

Ultimately, Stead’s words point to the complex nature of independence—how it can feel both liberating and daunting, yet it remains a crucial part of growing up. Her reflections show that embracing independence, even when it feels a little scary, is an essential part of developing resilience and confidence. Through her writing, Stead explores these themes, offering insight into the challenges and rewards of gaining freedom at a young age.