SOURCE: “Gold at the Rainbow's End,” in Books, Vol. 7, No. 4, July, 1993, p. 4.

In the following essay, Binchy discusses her relationship with and the inspiration that she draws from her homeland, Ireland.

Maeve Binchy's newest bestseller [The Copper Beech] follows the fortunes of eight children who carve their names on the copper beech tree behind the school in Shancarrig. Twenty years later, they gather to see the school house sold at auction. For each, their home town holds special memories—some too private ever to be told. With her warmth and humour, Maeve Binchy uncovers long-hidden secrets and shows how extraordinary stories can be found everywhere. Especially in Ireland, a country that holds a special place in her heart:

When I was young and anxious to see the whole world as soon as possible, I used to look with amazement at the visitors who came to Ireland to get...