Jane Austen Book Club

Author: Karen Jo Fowler (USA) and Liu Wen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: "Everyone has a unique Jane Austen in their heart." In the West, Austen's novels, like those of Dickens, are adapted into new films or TV series every few years. A book club of five women and one man, contemporary readers, discusses one of Austen's novels each month, reflecting on Austen through their own experiences. However, the late 20th century is too far removed from Austen's time—neither the characters in her books nor the readers can truly empathize with her. The best way to read Austen is not to relate it 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 image of Austen differs as well. During the discussions, the fates of the main characters intertwine. For readers familiar with Austen, this book allows you to deeper appreciate the charm of her novels. For those who rarely engage with British literature, themes of life and death, love and friendship, marriage, and life—these eternal human questions will undoubtedly move you deeply. 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 image of Austen differs as well. During the discussions, the fates of the main characters intertwine. For readers familiar with Austen, this book allows you to deeper appreciate the charm of her novels. For those who rarely engage with British literature, themes of life and death, love and friendship, marriage, and life—these eternal human questions will undoubtedly move you deeply.