Speaking

I’m an experienced public speaker, nervously thriving in front of any audience. My style is informal, friendly and energetic, and walks a fine line between an academic lecture and a stand-up routine – “not a presentation, but a performance” was one positive review. The content is always linguistic in its primary themes, but can easily head off into the realms of history, archaeology, modern culture, sociology, politics, religion, literature, beer, etc.

I’ve presented performed at conferences and festivals, in schools and in bookshops, online and in person, sometimes going solo and other times sharing the stage. In the latter case, I’ve been both interviewee and interviewer, always working to share the best information and welcome the whole audience into the conversation. I present for free or a fee, depending on the host.

If you are considering me as a speaker for an event of your own, I will be delighted, and ask that you get in touch via the Contact page.

Why Q Needs U Live!

My hit book, Why Q Needs U, has opened so many doors for me – most of them the doors of bookshops. For example, I’ve got to speak about the book and sign copies in Oxford (twice), Saffron Walden and deepest Wiltshire.

Alas, no more confirmed book-related events are in the diary; if that changes, I’ll pin them here. If you run a bookshop/book festival, or know someone who does, do consider an evening of joyful linguistic nerdery…