I’m a sucker for a book like A Jane Austen Education: How Six Novels Taught Me About Love, Friendship, and the Things That Really Matter . William Deresiewicz was a reluctant reader of Austen until he finally “got” Emma. Once he figured out what Jane Austen was up to, Deresiewicz read Austen’s entire oeuvre. And, in the process of reading Jane Austen, Deresiewicz found out that Austen’s wisdom changed his life (which was pretty messed up). Fans of Jane Austen will find A Jane Austen Education both clever and compelling. Those of you who haven’t read all of Jane Austen’s novels might want to just read those chapters about the novels you’ve read to avoid any spoilers. GRADE: B+
I cannot get Phil to read Austen. He just can’t see past the parties and tea to a critique of society unmatched in both writing and observation.
Mark Twain hated Jane Austen, Patti. One of Twain’s tamer comments about her was, “It pains me that she died a natural death.”
I’ve read PRIDE AND PREJUDICE but that’s all. I did see several of the movie adaptations.
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE is Austen’s best book, Jeff. But her other five novels all have charms of their own. I enjoyed how Deresiewicz was able to change his life (he was a bit of a jerk) by following Jane Austen’s wisdom.
I like Austin well enough, in an occasional way, have read three of the novels and have enjoyed some film adaptations. Though this looks interesting, I doubt I’d actually read it.
Deresiewicz is a congenial (if a bit socially awkward) guide to Jane Austen, Rick. I enjoyed his application of Austen’s wisdom to his mixed-up life.
Oh and let me wish you and the family an early Happy Memorial Day, George!
The same to you and yours, Rick!
I tried to read P&P twice and never got far. I loved the movie with Greer Garson, though. I thought the more recent remake suffered from Knightly’s one-trick acting style.
I consider the PRIDE & PREJUDICE version with Colin Firth to be the definitive film, Bob. It’s practically Austen’s novel transferred to celluloid. I agree with you on Knightly, but she’s wonderful eye candy.
And so was Firth!