Jane Austen Book Club -- Bestselling Novels in Europe and America

Author: (USA) Karen Jo Fowler
Translator: Liu Wen
United States / USA
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: "Everyone has a unique Jane Austen in their heart." In Europe and America, Austen's novels, like those of Dickens, are adapted into new films or TV series every few years. A book club of six contemporary readers—five women and one man—discusses one of Austen's novels each month, relating their own experiences to connect with her. However, the late 20th century is too far removed from Austen's time, so neither the characters in her books nor the readers can truly empathize with her. The best way to read Austen is not to relate to yourself but to forget yourself.
The entire book follows the narrative thread of the protagonist inviting five friends to gather monthly to discuss one of Austen's novels. Since everyone has different experiences and perspectives, their understanding of Austen varies. During the discussions, the fates of the main characters intertwine. For readers familiar with Austen, this book allows you to delve deeper into the charm of her novels. For those who rarely encounter British literature, themes of life and death, love and friendship, marriage, and life—these eternal human questions will undoubtedly move you deeply.