Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Katya

I have read this book so many times, and each time I remember exactly why I love it so much.

The word 'timeless' is often used in reference to 'classic' books, but in this case I think it's justified. Everyone knows someone like Mrs Bennet, silly and money grabbing, or Lydia, who's desperate to be noticed by a boy - any boy, or Jane, who's a lovely person but not great at standing up for themselves.

A lot of people miss the humour in the book too, which is a real shame - lines like 'Mr Collins had only to change [his affections] from Jane to Elizabeth - and it was soon done - done while Mrs Bennet was stirring the fire' always make me giggle, but are lost on people.

This is, perhaps, one case where seeing the film or the series (go for the BBC series, it's much better!) might help you understand the book if you're struggling with the language, which is old fashioned. But it's definitely worth it in the end.

Go, read it! You can get it online if you don't want a paper copy - try Project Gutenberg, or the Jane Austen homepage.