THE PODCAST
Episode 4: Dick Whittington
In Episode 4, hosts Susan Ackroyd and Lynda Beckingham transition from the angry political satire of earlier episodes to explore the positive story of Sir Richard Whittington, a genuine hero of the 1400s.
Susan and Lynda separate folk legend from historical fact regarding the famous merchant who became Lord Mayor of London four times. They examine how a rich textile merchant used his wealth during his life and after his death to benefit the needy, contrast his legacy with the disruptions of Henry VIII, and investigate where the famous cat in the story really came from.
Can’t attend a talk in person? We’ve got you covered!
Watch the full presentation from Hay-on-Wye, where Susan dives into the secret origins, royal scandals, and 600 years of hidden history buried inside classic nursery rhymes. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and experience the talk right from the comfort of your own home!
AUTHOR · SPEAKER · PODCAST HOST
The mystery and history behind the nursery rhymes we grew up with.
Susan Ackroyd uncovers the mystery, history and political intrigue hidden within traditional nursery rhymes.
Drawing on a lifelong passion for history, language and storytelling, her acclaimed book Rhyme & Reason, podcast and public talks invite readers to look beyond the familiar verses and discover the remarkable stories that may have inspired them.
Small rhymes. Remarkable histories.
For generations, nursery rhymes have been passed from one voice to another. Their words are familiar, but the worlds behind them may contain royal rivalries, religious conflict, political satire, social commentary and fragments of everyday life.
Susan follows the clues through English history and invites us to look again at the verses we thought we knew.
Mystery
Where did these familiar words begin?
History
What was happening in the world
around them at that time?
Memory
Why have they remained with us for generations?
THE BOOK
Discover Rhyme & Reason.
The rhymes may be short, but their histories are anything but simple.
In Rhyme & Reason, Susan Ackroyd explores the possible origins, historical settings and surprising interpretations connected with traditional nursery rhymes. Written for curious general readers, the book opens a doorway into English history through words many of us have known since childhood. Ideal for book lovers, history enthusiasts and anyone who has ever wondered where our nursery rhymes came from.
EVENTS & SPEAKING
Discover Susan’s upcoming talks and appearances
Susan’s illustrated talks combine historical research, humour and the pleasure of recognising rhymes remembered from childhood.
Her presentations are ideal for libraries, U3A groups, Probus clubs, historical societies, book clubs, festivals and curious general audiences.
IN CONVERSATION
Interviews, articles and podcast appearances.
Susan has shared the stories behind Rhyme & Reason through radio interviews, newspaper articles, public conversations and live events.
