Short Story

A gripping story unfolds around courier Sean, who faces personal tragedy while navigating a shadowy industrial city. Moments of pain and reflection reveal complex human relationships and social challenges, especially through the eyes of EBDO, a migrant worker. The hidden world of ghost kitchens is explored, shedding light on the realities of takeout preparation and urban life. The author emphasizes the importance of storytelling, mentorship, and the power of past experiences in shaping narratives.

Paterson Joseph reads Nice Dog by Vee Walker, the fourth story shortlisted for the 2024 BBC National Short Story Award, followed by an interview with the author on BBC Radio 4's Front RowPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

Rebekah Staton and Hasan Dixon read Pieces by Manish Chauhan, the third story shortlisted for the 2024 BBC National Short Story Award, followed by an interview with the author on BBC Radio 4's Front RowPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

Mark Strong reads The Barber of Erice by Will Boast, the second shortlisted story for the 2024 BBC National Short Story Award, followed by an interview with the author on BBC Radio 4's Front RowPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

Lisa Dwyer Hogg reads Hamlet, a Love Story by Lucy Caldwell, the first shortlisted story for the 2024 BBC National Short Story Award, followed by an interview with the author on BBC Radio 4's Front RowPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

Katie Thistleton presents a showcase of the five shortlisted stories for this year's BBC Young Writers' Award.Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, the BBC Young Writers’ Award with Cambridge University is open to all writers between the ages of 14 –18 and was created to discover and inspire the next generation of writers. It is a cross-network collaboration between BBC Radio 4 and Radio 1. The winner receives a personalised mentoring session with an author to enhance their writing skills. The 2024 BBC Young Writers’ Award shortlist with Cambridge University is:‘A Human, a Robot and a Gosling Walk into a Post-Apocalyptic Bar’ by Basmala Alkhalaf ‘The Quiet’ by Amaan Foyez ‘Special’ by Lulu Frisson ‘Confession’ by Vivienne Hall ‘Nathalie’s Flatmate’ by Aidan VogelzangPodcast produced by Rick Woska

Delve into a fantastical realm where a mysterious illness transforms the residents of an invalid colony. Katie Craven's unsettling change intrigues caregivers and reveals her deeper insights. The chilling atmosphere juxtaposes beauty with grotesque realities, featuring characters like Alice who challenge the norms. Tension builds as a doctor faces moral dilemmas amidst this eerie backdrop, exploring themes of defiance and the uncanny. Engaging storytelling invites listeners to ponder the nature of affliction and understanding.

A new short story for Radio 4 by the award-winning writer, Naomi Wood.Nursing a broken heart, a woman turns to an AI dating coach for help - with unexpected results.Writer: Naomi Wood is the winner of the 2023 BBC National Short Story Award, and author of three novels, including the award-winning Mrs Hemingway, and a new collection of stories, This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things.Reader: Rose RobinsonProducer: Justine WillettPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

A specially commissioned story from BBC NSSA 2023 shortlistee, Cherise Saywell.Reader: Katie Leung Producer: Elizabeth AllardPodcast presented and produced by Rick Woska

Roddy Doyle, the celebrated author behind The Commitments and Booker Prize winner Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha, shares a newly commissioned story read by actor Liam Carney. They delve into the comedic yet touching experiences of an elderly couple dealing with hearing aids, highlighting their evolving communication and relationship. The discussion also explores themes of spontaneity versus routine as they take an adventurous stroll through Dublin, reminding listeners of the joys and challenges of love and aging.