Author Frances Brody to be awarded honorary doctorate by Leeds Beckett University

LBU and the city

02 July 2024

Frances Brody, novelist, playwright and author of the internationally acclaimed Kate Shackleton series is to be awarded an honorary doctorate by Leeds Beckett University.

In addition to her success as a novelist, the award acknowledges her ongoing contribution to literary life in the City of Leeds.

Frances is closely involved with the Leeds Library, collaborating in the production of the library's 250th anniversary book, and is a tireless supporter of its events and activities. She is a regular contributor to the Headingley Lit Fest, the Leeds Lit Fest and similar events in Ilkley and Bradford.

Frances began her writing career in radio and has also written for theatre and television. Her historical fiction works are meticulously researched and capture a wide range of settings across Yorkshire. Her first published trilogy is based on stories told by her mother and depicts working-class Leeds during the early 20th century.

On receiving the award, Frances Brody said: "I'm delighted to receive this honorary award bearing the Leeds Beckett name. 'Beckett' has followed around me for my whole life. Beckett Street is where I was born and where I shared fond early memories. Good friends were laid to rest in Beckett Street cemetery. Becketts' Bank and the stories around it were the inspiration for my third novel which began my journey into crime writing. That I am being recognised by this institution feels somehow meant to be!"

Professor Peter Slee, Leeds Beckett University Vice Chancellor said: "Frances's work combines rigorous historical research with expert storytelling. Her commitment to rooting her stories in the life and people of Yorkshire make her a fine ambassador for the region. This year, she joins over 1,000 fellow graduates in the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, who will each go on to play their part in helping us to interpret and understand the world around us."

Frances Brody will receive her honorary doctorate during Leeds Beckett's graduation week in July, where over 7,500 students and nearly 29,000 guests will attend ceremonies. Over 11,000 students will graduate from the university this summer.