Judy Simons is an author, literary critic and Professor Emeritus of English whose writing  brings historical lives and moments into clear, engaging focus. Her recent books explore themes of resilience, hardship, and hope, shaping narratives around remarkable people and lived experience. Her work is thoughtful, original, and accessible, offering a humane and often quietly engaging perspective on history.

After three decades in academia, research remains central to Judy’s work and outlook. Raised in Sheffield, she studied English at university and went on to become a Professor of English. Her family played a prominent role in the city’s Jewish community, and a strong sense of cultural identity was part of her upbringing from an early age.

Although she took early retirement from full-time academic life, she has remained closely engaged with scholarship and regular writes for a literary journal.  Around half of her time is devoted to writing and reading.

Alongside her academic and writing work, Judy serves as Chair of  High Peak Theatre Trust which manages the iconic Buxton Opera House. This reflects her passion for heritage and her belief in the importance of the arts to communities.

Judy has long been influenced by the capacity of literature to shape thinking and understanding. She is particularly committed to supporting girls and women to realise their potential, and for many years was non-executive director of international career consultancy City CV and a trustee of the Girls' Day School Trust. Her latest book is written in part as a legacy for future generations, reflecting on how individual lives are shaped by the histories that precede them.