Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps
Robert Powell reads from the 1923 novel by Arnold Bennett about the poignant struggles of everyday London life
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 1
It is a year since the end of the First World War. On Riceyman Steps, a secondhand bookseller contemplates a significant change to his circumstances.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 10
The shock of his wife's death galvanises Henry Earlforward into a final nocturnal visit to his office, where he discovers that Elsie had violated the sanctity of his safe.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 2
Henry Earlforward learns that his new neighbour, the widowed Mrs Arb, shares his passion for thrift. They also share the services of the good-natured charwoman, Elsie.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 3
Elsie's sweetheart Joe has returned from the war, shell-shocked and volatile. He is unable to control the strength of his feelings, and a violent outburst ensues.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 4
Romance, of a sort, is in the air in Clerkenwell, but Henry Earlforward believes practicalities must take precedence.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 5
Mr Earlforward's drive for economy is revealed as a corrosive desire, in stark contrast with the spontaneous greed for life embodied by the hard-working but ever-hungry Elsie.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 6
The corrosive desire for thrift begins to dominate married life at Mr Earlforward's bookshop. Henry's refusal to eat properly is beginning to affect his health.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 7
Elsie and Violet are increasingly anxious about Henry's weakened state and his refusal to acknowledge that he is ill. Elsie's loyalty prompts her to take matters into her own hands.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 8
Henry has issued a stern warning to Elsie that she has been stealing food from a dying man, but his bluff is called when he takes a turn for the worse and the doctor is summoned.
Details
Book at Bedtime - Riceyman Steps - Episode 9
By Arnold Bennett. After a year's absence, Elsie's sweetheart Joe has returned - but he is desperately ill and now she has two patients to cope with.
Details