I adore reading. I demolish books when I’ve time and in the mood. I can get quite selfish and disappear for hours lost in characters plots and far-flung places. I get so embroiled with some characters that I actually start referring to them in conversations then realise that I’m using a book character as an example. I hastily add when queried, “who’s that” with a “oh you wouldn’t know them”
Scundered!! (NI speak ie mortified)
One of my fave writers I discovered as a young woman over 24 years ago was Maeve Binchy. She is/was one of those writers whose characters ‘grabbed’ you. I actually took 3 of her books away on honeymoon.
We’ve seen the new 50 shades best seller. We’ve read the stats. For me, a book that reaches in like a huge big cuddle and infiltrates my every pore, THAT’s a best seller. Maeve Binchys books did that to me. I’ll not lie, I found her latest books lighter weight, almost too easy to read, proper beach books…….but 85% of her books, phenomenal, thought-provoking and ‘un-put-down-able’ Not everyone’s cup of tea. A romantic Irish writer, who wrote about female characters who struck a chord. Maeve Binchy inspired future Irish writers like Cathy Kelly and Sheila O’Flanagan…..their tributes amongst others show respect and heartfelt loss to the death of one of Ireland’s National Treasures.
She also inspired young writers and got involved in community projects in Ireland. She was ‘all singing all dancing’ embracing life, her very happy marriage to Gordan Snell and aptly picked Édith Piafs Je ne regrette rien as one of her favourite songs….. I regret nothing “no regrets” great adage in life…….
Maeve Binchy died at the age of 72.
Her legacy, selling 40 million copies of her books which were translated into 37 languages.
This woman touched so many readers hearts. I remember crying in 2002 when she suffered heart failure and was rumoured she would write no more….. She couldn’t help it, she couldn’t stop, she carried on writing…..her last novel ‘Minding Frankie’ published in 2010.
From Light a Penny Candle, written in 1982 through to 2010, Maeve Binchy did what she loves to do best….to write. Her story telling is/was spellbinding. As an avid reader and small time writer, she inspired me……maybe one day…..
I raise my Novel…..to Maeve, may her words ever capture the imaginations heart.
