I had a very happy childhood, which is unsuitable if you're going to be an Irish writer.

If you woke up each morning, and immediately dwelt on your ills, what sort of a day could you look forward to?

The great thing about getting older is that you become more mellow. Things aren't as black and white, and you become much more tolerant. You can see the good in things much more easily rather than getting enraged as you used to do when you were young.

I've been very lucky and I have a happy old age with good family and friends still around.

When I was younger, I avoided exercise or anything strenuous. I didn't even enjoy walking. As I got older, I spent so much time marking books or sitting at a desk writing that there was no room for exercise - not that I would have bothered anyway.

I discovered that men were just like everyone else, really. They liked you if you were good-tempered and easy to talk to. And being a big girl meant other females trusted you more and confided in you.

I'm a great will maker. I've made my will every year since I was 21.