Loopy: A Novel of Golf and Ireland

Dan Binchy's first two novels were delightful stories of small town Ireland and filled with a range of eccentric and hilarious characters. Both books received warm praise---The Washington Post called The Neon Madonna terrifically funny and a hilarious read. Booklist called The Last Resort an endearing and entertaining combination of warmth and wit.

The tiny village of Trabane is tucked far away in the west of Ireland. The local golf course was designed more by nature than by man. On 'links' like this, golf is much more than just a game to those that play it. It is a battlefield where scores are settled and every man and woman is equal.

To young Larry Lynch, nicknamed Loopy, golf opens up new horizons and the chance of a better life. Having only recently picked up the sport, he finds he has a natural skill and quickly becomes the town's leading amateur. Loopy's gifted athleticism earns him entry into the Atlantic Trophy---a prestigious competition at the famed course, Ballykissane. Helped only by an eccentric caddy and a gaggle of noisy supporters, he takes on some of the world's best amateur golfers in a titanic struggle that will warm the heart of readers everywhere. Little does he know that he is playing for a prize far, far greater than a silver trophy.

Through it all, Binchy imbues the work with a wonderful feel of small town Ireland and, of course, the Irish spirit.

Echoes of Rocky in a sweet-natured tale of golf and small-town Ireland...Binchy's third...is a dead-solid hit with cousin Maeve (I...love this book!), which is not surprising since it's Binchyesque to the core.
---Kirkus Reviews