Everyone who lives in England knows that there are two major accents: one is highly desirable. It’s somehow synonymous with wealth and intelligence. The other is highly undesirable. It’s sadly synonymous with poverty and lack of education.

Unfortunately, my accent belongs in the latter category, while Queen Elizabeth’s belongs in the former.

I grew up in Wigan (John Wesley called it Wicked Wigan) a town in the industrial north, home of coal mines and cotton mills. Whenever we went on holiday to the south and I opened my mouth to talk, I was always uncomfortably aware that I was a northener. 

Imagine my surprise, then, when I moved to the United States and people loved the way I spoke. I could hardly believe it! Michigan has to be the only place in the world where it’s cool to have a Wigan accent. 

In fact, as an author, my Wigan accent is now a positive asset. When I visit schools in Michigan to read to the children, they squeal in delight:

It’s the British author!

And when I visit schools in England to read to the children there, they squeal in delight:

It’s the American author!

It’s super-cute, and a total win-win for me.

Would you like to hear this British author reading ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas?

You can! To hear me read this new book in my best Wigan accent, (which I am now very proud of!) all you have to do is listen in on this free, online recorded webinar,

No matter where you are in the world… in wonderful Wigan or marvelous Michigan, you can just jump on your computer or smart phone, and you’ll be able to see every page of this premium picture book as I read it. I also answer questions and share ideas of ways to use this new release in your children’s ministry or home this Christmas.

If you can’t listen to the webinar, be sure to enter another giveaway at the 4th stop on the ‘Twas blog hop, at Our Everyday Harvest where Kelly Ann has written a wonderful review of this brand-new Christmas release.

See you there!