Darker and more intense than the first collection, these six stories uncover the secrets behind ordinary suburban lives. From Patricia Routledge's Miss Fozzard, whose new chiropodist turns out to be rather peculiar, to Eileen Atkins' portrayal of an antiques dealer who lets a masterpiece slip through her fingers, the characters come alive through Bennett's writing.

These tales of desperation and loneliness are handled with the lightness of touch, compassion and shrewdly observed detail that have made Alan Bennett one of the country's best-loved writers.

Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet with Patricia Routledge

The Hand of God with Eileen Atkins

Playing Sandwiches with David Haig

The Outside Dog with Julie Walters

Nights in the Gardens of Spain with Penelope Wilton

Waiting for the Telegram with Thora Hird