Beloved poet and author Michael Rosen joins the host to discuss how writing can help after trauma, how performing poetry for children shaped his work, and the power of plain language to express great emotion.

Celebrated poet, author, professor and broadcaster, Michael Rosen reflects on finding joy after tragedy and adversity, discussing the role of play, absurdity, and curiosity. He shares his personal experience of grief and coping mechanisms, including honoring and remembering loved ones through commemorative activities. They explore the role of curiosity in coping with death and emphasize the importance of hope and embracing joy in life.

Renowned author, poet, and performer Michael Rosen discusses his career, including his popular book 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt'. He reflects on his upbringing in a book-filled household influenced by his parents' political beliefs and his early inspiration from the painting 'Netherlandish Proverbs'. Michael also opens up about the impact of his son's death and his discovery of his Jewish family's fate during the war.

Michael Rosen, a renowned author and COVID-19 survivor, shares his harrowing journey through severe illness, including a 40-day coma and the lingering struggles of Long Covid. He candidly discusses the emotional toll, societal misconceptions, and advocates for peer support. With humor, he reflects on memory challenges affecting his writing and explores the therapeutic power of storytelling, including his upcoming children's book inspired by his recovery. The importance of community and shared experiences shines as a beacon of hope in these challenging times.

Join authors Michael Booth and Michael Rosen as they unravel the enigmatic life of Hans Christian Andersen. Booth, known for his deep dives into Scandinavia, describes Andersen as 'a very strange orchid.' They discuss the curious tales and dark themes of Andersen's stories like 'The Ugly Duckling' and 'The Tinderbox.' Rosen shares nostalgic memories of how Andersen's work shaped his childhood. The conversation meanders through Andersen's struggles, unreciprocated loves, and his extraordinary ascent from poverty to literary fame.