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Episode 1

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Robert Forrest's popular thriller, set in 10th-century Japan. Shonagon is summoned to meet the new empress - an encounter even more strange and disturbing than she imagines.

Lady Shonagon and Lieutenant Yukinari return for a new series of the popular mystery, The Pillow Book, set in 10th-century Japan.

Following the Empress Teishi's father's death, a new Chancellor holds power in the Palace. He has ensured his daughter now occupies the throne, as Empress and First
Consort to the Emperor.

Summoned to a meeting with the new Empress, Shonagon is visited by a disturbing vision.

The Pillow Book is inspired by the writings of Sei Shonagon, a poet and lady-in-waiting to the Empress of the 10th-century Japanese court.

Written by Robert Forrest.

Directed by Lu Kemp.

A BBC Scotland Production for Radio 4.

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Mon 25 Mar 201919:45

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Credits

RoleContributor
ShonagonRuth Gemmell
YukinariStuart McQuarrie
SaishoVictoria Liddelle
Empress TeishiLaura Rees
Empress ShoshiKatie Leung
WriterRobert Forrest
DirectorLu Kemp

Broadcasts

  • Mon 20 Nov 201710:45
  • Mon 25 Mar 201919:45