2. Peter and Jeremy

Peter Rabbit makes his first appearance, as Beatrix Potter's writing career takes off.

In the Summer of 1893, the Potters are ensconced in Dunkeld on the River Tay as Beatrix paints pictures of fungi.

Knowing the son of her former governess is sick, Beatrix decides to write to him. So she makes up a story about her pet rabbit, Peter Piper.

This becomes a picture-letter, featuring Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail and Peter - and the villain of the piece, Mr MacGregor.

She then writes another, this time to Noel's brother Eric. It's about a frog, Mr Jeremy Fisher.

In two days, Beatrix has created what will turn out to be two of the most famous children's characters ever - and recorded a rare fungus.

Linda Lear’s biography of the 20th century's most-beloved children's writer.

Abridged by Alison Joseph

Read by Lindsay Duncan.

Producer: Kirsteen Cameron

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2006.