Rhyme & Reason podcast launching 18 August 2026

Rhyme & Reason podcast launching 18 August 2026

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.

Black ink drawing of a bird in flight with detailed feathers, wings spread, and motion lines indicating movement.
MEET SUSAN
MEET SUSAN
Portrait of author and speaker Susan Ackroyd outdoors.

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.

Black-and-white illustration of a sheep from Baa, Baa, Black Sheep in Rhyme & Reason.

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.

Open copy of Rhyme & Reason showing the Baa, Baa, Black Sheep verse and illustration.
BUY THE BOOK
BUY THE BOOK

  • “Satire and metaphor, ancient politics and intrigue. Stimulating and thought-provoking. Food for our ageing brains!”

    — Enid (Campsie Probus Group)

SEE REVIEWS

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.

VIEW ALL EVENTS
VIEW ALL EVENTS
Susan Ackroyd presenting an illustrated talk about the history of nursery rhymes to a community audience.

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.

EXPLORE MEDIA
ABC Radio interview with Susan Ackroyd about the history of nursery rhymes.
U3A logo representing Susan Ackroyd’s educational talks on nursery-rhyme history.
Probus logo representing Susan Ackroyd’s presentations on nursery-rhyme history.
ABC Radio Nightlife interview with Susan Ackroyd about the history of nursery rhymes.