The Book

Charlotte and Lillian are back, continuing a Befriend the Elderly scheme despite not liking each other much. Both are convinced they’re doing the other a favour - Charlotte by providing company for a lonely old lady, Lillian by filling gaps on the CV of a self-absorbed millennial.

Neither have seen much of anyone during lockdown. Lillian is as determined as ever to remain independent with Puzzles Weekly, the companionship of daytime TV and the occasional phone call. Charlotte, meanwhile, has been gaining ground as a social media influencer, sharing updates of her good deeds and bringing joy to just about everyone’s life. Apart from Lillian’s, of course.

In this new series, Charlotte is ever eager to embrace the latest trends, from dog ownership and online fundraising to improved nutrition for the local community. She's also determined to get Lillian out of the house, where Lillian promptly reveals her unique take on the rules of the road, domestic animals and Charlotte’s preoccupation with what other people think of her.

Starring Helen Monks as Charlotte and Miriam Margolyes as Lillian.

Episode 1: The Book
Lillian has joined a book group, though is having difficulty completing this month's selection. Charlotte suggests she rents the film instead, and agrees to accompany Lillian to their local library.

Miriam Margolyes is one of the most recognisable actresses working today. This year, at the age of 80, she has told her life story, which is being published as a memoir.

Helen Monks is the Co-Artistic Director of Lung Theatre, and the co-host of Bitchin', a podcast with Tilly Steele. She plays Shakespeare's daughter Susanna in Upstart Crow, and the young Caitlin Moran in Raised by Wolves.

Charlotte ...... Helen Monks
Lillian ...... Miriam Margolyes
Greg, the homeless man …. Laurence Howarth
Librarian …. Hilary Derrett

Written by Kat Sommers and Holly Walsh.

Producer: Lucy Armitage

A Giddy Goat production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2021.