For fifty years, she watched the direction of human progress change—and leap ahead.
-- Reporter (Introduction paragraph 9)

Importance: This is the reporter's description of Dr. Calvin and his motivation for interviewing her.

Robbie’s metal skin, kept at a constant temperature of seventy by the high resistance coils within, felt nice and comfortable while the beautifully loud sound her heels made as they bumped rhythmically against his chest was enchanting.
-- Dr. Calvin (Chapter 1 paragraph 27)

Importance: This describes Gloria's feelings for Robbie as he carries her around her front yard. It illustrates the warm relationship between them.

It was one of Gregory Powell’s favorite platitudes that nothing was to be gained from excitement, so when Mike Donovan came leaping down the stairs toward him, red hair matted with perspiration, Powell frowned.
-- Dr. Calvin (Chapter 2 paragraph 1)

Importance: This quote illustrates the differences between the personalities of partners Powell and Donovan.

Say, Greg, he…he’s drunk or something.
-- Donovan (Chapter 2 paragraph 121)

Importance: This is Michael Donovan's reaction to a...