Maura Laverty

Maura Laverty (1907-1966) was an Irish author, journalist and broadcaster known for her work on Irish soap opera Tolka Row. She published several novels, short stories and critical pieces throughout her career. Born in Rathangan in Ireland, Lavert was educated at Brigidine Convent where she studied teacher-training. She later moved to Spain, taking up the position of governess and later secretary to Princess Bibesco and eventually becoming a foreign correspondent based within Madrid. Laverty returned to Ireland for the remainder of her career and worked as a journalist and broadcaster in Dublin for the national radio station, RTÉ.

Her first novel Never No More (1942) recieved widespread acclaim. It was based in County Kildare, drawing heavily on personal experiences during her time in Derrymore House. Laverty's other works include Touched by the Thorn (1943) and Alone We Embark (1943). Two of her books were banned in the Republic of Ireland, including her second, the semi-autobiographical No More than Human (1944), which apparently offended the censor because of its frankness about the female body. She also wrote numerous children's stories including The Cottage in the Bog (1946) and The Green Orchard (1949).