- guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 22 July 2008 15.39 BST
1940-
"In all my books, it is the emotions which start the story."
Birthplace
Dalkey, Ireland
Education
University College, Dublin
Other jobs
Worked on a kibbutz, as a teacher, and as a journalist on the Irish Times.
Did you know?
On a visit to a Jerusalem cave, she lost her Catholic faith and found her literary vocation.
Critical verdict
She inspires great devotion in her fans and a complete lack of critical interest.
Recommended works
Binchy herself recommends Evening Class as a way into her novels.
Influences
I write exactly as I speak, so therefore I would not say any writer influenced me at all."
Now read on
Molly Keane, Deirdre Purcell, Rosamunde Pilcher, Edna O'Brien
Adaptations
Circle Of Friends (1995), dir. Pat O'Connor, with Minnie Driver in an early starring role, changed the ending so that boy does get girl.
Useful links and work online
Background
· Official site
