Who Are The Main Characters In The Lido?

I adore how 'The Lido' balances its two leads. Rosemary could’ve easily been a caricature of the 'spunky old lady,' but she’s written with such nuance—her loneliness isn’t glossed over, nor is her determination. Kate’s anxiety is portrayed with real sensitivity, too; her growth isn’t just about 'fixing' herself but learning to embrace imperfections. Even smaller characters, like the kids who splash around at the pool or the council members debating its closure, feel intentional. The book’s strength is in how it shows activism on a micro level—saving the Lido isn’t just about the building but the lives it holds. It left me thinking about how we undervalue public spaces until they’re gone.

Rosemary’s my favorite—imagine swimming daily in your 80s! Her relationship with Kate is the heart of the book. Kate starts off so isolated, but Rosemary drags her into this vibrant world. Even the minor characters, like the regular swimmers, add texture. It’s a love letter to community pools and the stories they hold.

Rosemary and Kate are the emotional core of 'The Lido,' but let me gush about Rosemary for a sec. She’s the kind of older character we don’t see enough—complex, not just a token wise grandma. She’s stubborn, witty, and unapologetically passionate about her swims. Her backstory with George, her late husband, adds such depth; you see how grief and love intertwine in her daily rituals. Kate’s journey is equally compelling—her social anxiety feels so relatable, especially when she’s pushing herself to connect with Rosemary. The side characters, like Jay, Kate’s supportive but distant boyfriend, or the gruff but kind-hearted pool manager, round out the world. It’s a story that makes you want to fight for the little things that bind communities together.

The Lido' by Libby Page is such a heartwarming story, and the characters feel like real people you'd meet at your local community pool. The two main protagonists are Rosemary and Kate. Rosemary is this vibrant 86-year-old woman who's been swimming at the Lido her entire life—it's her sanctuary, her routine, and her connection to memories of her late husband. She's feisty, full of wisdom, and deeply rooted in Brixton's history. Then there's Kate, a 26-year-old journalist struggling with anxiety and loneliness in London. She's assigned to cover the potential closure of the Lido, and through Rosemary, she finds unexpected friendship and courage. Their dynamic is beautifully written; Rosemary's zest for life contrasts with Kate's initial hesitance, but they both grow so much. There's also a cast of supporting characters like the Lido's staff and regulars who add layers to the story—each feels distinct, like Phil the lifeguard or Ahmed the café owner. It's a book about community, resilience, and how places can shape people.

What really stuck with me was how the Lido itself feels like a character—a living, breathing space that ties everyone together. The way Page writes about the water, the routines, and the shared love for this place makes it more than just a setting. If you've ever had a local spot that felt like home, you'll get this book. I finished it with this weird mix of nostalgia and motivation to go find my own 'Lido,' you know?