I’m just back home after spending a lovely few days in Cork.

First I went to Berrings to visit the amazing National School there. In the hall, I was greeted by a huge welcome banner, with my name in the biggest letters I’ve ever seen. (They’ve promised to send me a photo, and I’ll post it here when I get it.)

Next it was off to Rushbrooke, by the sea. It was especially nice to visit here again, as much of ‘The Time Spell’ was set in the area. I left with a huge bundle of letters, which I’m still working my way through -and really enjoying.

Next day it was off to Bandon. There I was welcomed by Gerry from Bandon Books, and hordes of eager readers. A couple of American tourists wandered in, and stayed for my talk. Afterwards they bought one of my books for their grand-daughter. The gentleman came up to me before they left. ‘I’d wish you good luck,’ he said, ‘except I don’t think you need it.’ I thought that was really sweet.

Best part of my trip was that I moved back in with my parents for a few days. I fear that I ‘treated their house like a hotel’ but they are far too nice to point that out. Every evening, my dad prepared a delicious dinner, which was followed by one of my mum’s legendary cakes. By the second day, I was wondering why I’d ever left home at all!

PS When I got back to Limerick, my children told me that I’ve re-acquired my Cork accent – result!