Sian Prior On Shyness

As a journalist, musician and broadcaster, Sian Prior has spent the past two decades firmly in the public eye. During that time, she tried not to betray a characteristic she’s carried with her since childhood – her debilitating shyness.

Shy: A Memoir chronicles Sian’s investigation into a condition that has always troubled her, exploring its impact on her family, friendships and self-perception. She tries to discover exactly what shyness is, where hers came from and how to manage the constant urge to withdraw from social situations.

Sian contributed a weekly column to the Age for three years, and her work has featured in Rolling Stone, The Big Issue, Women of Letters and other publications. She’ll be in conversation with Francesca Rendle-Short, author of the novel/memoir Bite Your Tongue.