Maureen Sparling began writing in 1990. Amongst her many published works are, A New Day Dawns, One Flew Over Thomond Bridge, Revenge of the Innocent, A Dubious Destiny, Ten Lamb Chops for a Pound, and more ….. along with a myriad of poetry collections.

The youngest of six, Maureen’s deep love of Kilkee was nurtured by her parents, John & Bridie Ryan, and family holidays throughout many years.

At home in her native city of Limerick, Maureen successfully campaigned for a statue to be erected in honour of Michael Hogan, the famous 19th century Bard of Thomond.

A teacher by profession since 1960, in later years Maureen was employed by Limerick City VEC, where she held numerous adult classes.

Maureen Sparling has been compiling the St. Mary’s Community column for the Limerick Leader for close on 25 years. In addition to her love of literature, she bears a deep-seated “Grá” for the Irish language, proudly securing, Ceard Teastas na Gaeilge.

Maureen enjoys swimming occasionally at Kilkee, proudly having overcome a fear of water in her early forties.

A love of home and family is what she terms her “grounding”, keeping her level every day of her life.