Whitethorn Woods

I just finished reading Maeve Binchy's latest book, Whitethorn Woods. It explores random peoples lives and how they are all connected to Whitethorn Woods, in Rossmore,Ireland and St. Ann's Well that is found there. A new bypass is to be put through Rossmore, straight through the woods and the well. Some think it's a good idea, shows Ireland is progressive, modern, and will get rid of the superstitious well and statue where people go to pray for husbands, babies, and cures. Others feel that it has been part of their village and religion, it is a sacred place, that has given them husbands, babies and cures and must be cherished and protected. The book explores these different characters that come from all over Ireland, England and even the United States to have a look at St.Ann's Well.

The local priest, Father Flynn, is on the fence as to what he thinks should be done, he is frustrated by the idolatrous nature of peoples faith in the well, but she is Jesus's grandmother, but most likely never came to Ireland. Here's his description of the statue by the well:

It had been painted and refurbished over the years, making the apple cheeks even pinker, the brown cloak richer, the wisps of hair under the cream-colored veil even blonder.
If St. Ann existed she would have been a small dark woman, from the land of Palestine and Israel. She would not have have looked like an Irish advertisement for some kind of cheese spread.

The book is filled with happy stories, sad stories, and ones that make you sit and ponder. But there are quotes sprinkled through out, such as the one above, that will make you laugh out loud.