Maeve Binchy Great Irish story teller

I came upon Maeve Binchy quite by accident when a friend passed "Light a Penny Candle " to me while we were traveling through France together. The book, her first novel, was easy to read and immensely enjoyable. Her characters are Irish to the core and many of her books are set in Ireland or the people have Irish roots. As I was born in Wales, just over the Irish Sea from Ireland, there were many similarities.The main difference is that the Roman Catholic Church at the time of writing, held sway in that Country whereas Chapel in its many guises ruled the roost in Wales.

Her stories are refreshing as she builds up a background for her characters that is very detailed and makes them almost tangible. The way of life of the Irish people is set out as a much more simple one than life today, no cell phones, little TV and lots of church going.

Maeve's descriptions of people and places are delicate and detailed. Beautiful places are made real by her touch. Situations are believable and usually by the second chapter you find yourself living the story. Even if characters are transplanted to Italy or London, their Irishness shines through. They are not hardened by life, they retain Irish charm and thoughtfulness/

Having read most of her writings, I find her books impossible to put down. Although her books are in sharp contrast to the John Grisham, Michael Connally and Michael Chrichton mysteries I usually enjoy, Maeve Binchy's quiet tales of a simpler life have a very soothing effect. Her unraveling of life styles and her understanding of human nature and the clever twists to the endings are entrancing. Rereading her books is never dull as there is always something new to glean from her tales of convoluted domestic situations. Possibly more appealing to the female reader she may be, I like Maeve Binchy and would recommend her stories to any one.

Maeve Binchy was born on 28 th May 1940 in Ireland. She was a teacher before she started writing novels. She has written nine collections of short stories as well as her fifteen stories. Although she stated not long ago that she was going to stop writing, she keeps them coming. I for one will be delighted with each new offering. Thank you Maeve Binchy!

30 th July 2012, just read the sad news that Maeve has died after a short illness at the age of 72. The literary world will be a lesser place without her. R.I.P Maeve. So sad.