I’m Edinburgh born and based. You might know me from my YouTube channel JeansThoughts where I've been discussing books, writing, studying, and ancient history since 2012.

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I am also an author, presenter, and as of 2022 Dr Jean Zacharski Menzies, PhD in ancient history!

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In 2020 I won the BAMB Breakthrough Author award for my first book, Greek Myths: Meet the heroes, gods, and monsters of ancient Greece, which was published by DK and is aimed at children aged 7-11. My first adult fantasy novel, The Flames of Albiyon, is out September 2nd 2021, and there may also be some more non-fiction projects in the works... ;)

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I recently obtained my PhD in ancient history from The University of Roehampton, where I have also taught various undergraduate courses. In the past, I have completed both an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in classics at The University of Edinburgh. My specialties are Greek literature, Athenian law, Greek Mythology, and the history of women in Classical Greece.

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In addition to this I produce the podcast That’s Ancient History, which is available on most major podcast apps. The podcast explores antiquity, from its history to its place in today’s world. Episodes include interviews with authors Pat Barker, Madeline Miller, Natalie Haynes, and Alexandra Sheppard.

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I am currently available for freelance work including social media consultancy; the services I offer are listed here.