Hello!
I’m a teacher from Yorkshire with just over twenty years in the classroom and a lifelong love of books. I studied History at the University of Hull, and continue to love the subject, particularly modern history, including Weimar and Nazi Germany.
​
I now live in Leicester with my husband and our cats, though I’m always dreaming of a move back up North. When I’m not teaching or reading, I’m busy running my small business, Unbox the Past. I create unique book boxes that pair a history book with a complementary piece of historical fiction. Each box comes with my own set of notes (timelines, historical context, author profiles, and comparative reflections) as well as bespoke gifts like pencils, review cards and badges.
​
Although I love being in the classroom and couldn’t imagine leaving it, opening a bookshop has always been a dream of mine. Unbox the Past lets me combine both passions: teaching, learning and sharing the joy of discovering new books.
​
My own shelves hold over 1,500 books (many still waiting to be read!), which means I’m never short of choice when picking my next book. I gravitate toward history, historical fiction and cosy crime, but I also enjoy dipping into nature, art and education titles. As I am easily tempted by a beautiful cover or an intriguing blurb, I have a very eclectic book collection!
​
I’m really excited to be working on this new project. You can buy my boxes here or find them on Etsy, or you might see me at a local craft or book fair.
​
Thank you for visiting and happy reading, Annabelle