The Jane Austen Book Club:Summary:
In California's Central Valley, five women and one man join together to discuss Jane Austen's novels. Over the six months they meet, marriages are tested, affairs begin, unsuitable arrangements become suitable, and love happens.
My Review:
I really enjoyed this book. I loved learning about the characters and all their foibles. None of them are perfect and it shows. Fowler really delves into their backgrounds and thus we see a bit of why they are the way they are today. The movie had a hard time showing this since they could only fit so much into a two hour movie. So now reading the book I know a bit more about why they do the things they do.
I also loved the way all these different people can come together over Austen and liken her novels unto their own lives. We also see how Austen can subtly influence the lives of those who read her. I just loved the way the characters interacted with each other. Lots of times they didn't even like each other, but eventually they see the beauty in each other and love grows.
It's a wonderful read for any Austen fan and just a great read in general!
A fun quote:
"There was something appealing in thinking of a character with a secret life that her author knew nothing about. Slipping off while the author's back was turned, to find love in her own way. Showing up just in time to deliver the next bit of dialogue with an innocent face."
This is part of the Everything Austen Challenge
It seems you read the book after watching the film. This is something I usually avoid doing. I mean I do just the opposite . I saw the movie but didn't even know it was based on a novel. Now, after reading your review, I'd like to read it, it seems the characters are better developed, with more psychological insight. Thanks Heather!
ReplyDeleteNice to read your thoughts on a book that I've seen getting several mixed reviews. I love the film and I'm looking forward to reading the book now :)
ReplyDeleteLike Kals, I have heard so many mixed reviews on both the book and the movie so I am glad to hear your take on it. I'm going to give both a try but I think I will read the book first to get more of an understanding of the plot before I watch the movie which seems to not be able to dive in deep enough for most people.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your review!
Meg
Good review. I enjoyed the book and movie too, but it's been a few years since I read the book and watched the movie. I should perhaps read the book again one of these days!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the book also, as well as your review. Seems so many people were looking for the Austen parallels and were either disappointed they weren't stronger or disappointed that they were too strong. Anyway, I thought it fun, interesting, and thought provoking for lovers of Austen.
ReplyDeleteLoved your fun quote--it does seem to encapsulate what I liked about the book's tone.
i may have to give the book a try after all. i was hesitant because of mixed reviews too.
ReplyDeletebtw: you've just been awarded...again ;-D
http://vvb32reads.blogspot.com/2009/09/beautiful-bingo-award.html
Great review! I have this one sitting on my shelf, waiting to be read.
ReplyDelete