Jane has yet again come to work with a smile on her face (the office heating was on and the canteen was stocked with Cadbury’s Fruit and Nut). Fi’s still off, so Eve props Jane up - they chat Barbara Pym, aliens, bowling with piles, and book translations.

Plus, space scientist Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock discusses her memoir 'Starchild'.

Our next book club pick is 'A Town Like Alice' by Nevil Shute.

Our most asked about book is called 'The Later Years' by Peter Thornton.

You can listen to our 'I'm in the cupboard on Christmas' playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1awQioX5y4fxhTAK8ZPhwQ

If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio

Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfi

Podcast Producers: Eve Salusbury

Executive Producer: Rosie Cutler

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I got a pocket, got a pocketful of Anusol (with Dame Maggie Aderin)