Susan Ackroyd has dedicated her career to education, law and vocational training, with a lifelong passion for history and storytelling. From teaching English and History to supporting migrants and refugees, practising elder law, and improving education standards across Australia, her work has always centred on helping people and uncovering meaningful stories.

Now retired, Susan has turned that passion into writing. Her debut book, Rhyme & Reason, explores the surprising historical origins of familiar nursery rhymes, revealing centuries of political intrigue, satire and forgotten history hidden within the verses we still know today.

Through her writing and podcast, Susan brings mystery and history to life, inviting readers and listeners to see the past through a fresh and fascinating lens.

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News Article featuring Susan Ackroyds new book Rhyme and Reason - Edition 2, Mystery and History.

AS FEATURED IN ‘THE SENIOR’ - JULY 2025

ABC INTERVIEW WITH SUZANNE HILL ON NIGHTLIFE

Who was Miss Muffett?  What was the plum that Jack Horner pulled from his pie? The real stories behind the nursery rhymes you grew up with

Listen TO INTERVIEW

What People Are Saying

  • Satire and metaphor, ancient politics and intrigue Stimulating and thought provoking. Food for our aging brains!

    — Marie Williams

  • Puts a whole new meaning on what I always thought of as children's nonsense rhymes that have persevered over the ages.

    — Robyn

  • Enthralled by your talk and very pleased with your book. Strongly recommend to anyone with a interest in history and folklore.

    — Lyn

  • A valuable addition to any school library. These evergreen rhymes are meticulously researched and practically presented.

    — Susan Beinart

  • Enjoyed reading the history behind the rhymes that we recited in our childhood without ever really understanding the true meaning behind them.

    — Linda Mabbott

  • A delight for all ages, communicating the importance of rhyme to children and a refresher course in British History, richly enhanced by mystery and intrigue.

    — Elizabeth Stanley