Persuasion by Jane AustenMy review
rating: 3 of 5 stars
Shockingly, for a "classic," I actually didn't mind reading this book as much as I expected to. Perhaps "age and maturity" have made me a more tolerant reader, but I suspect that Jane Austen is simply a more interesting writer than Charles Dickens, primarily because she concentrates on detailing the inner lives (i.e. thoughts and emotions) of her characters rather than the external scenery and family histories of every character that appears in the novel. Moreover, the title was tremendously appropriate, something that I, as a fellow writer (although not yet novel novelist) appreciate greatly.
Although I had never heard of Persuasion prior to my mother's informing me that her book club was reading it (which was why I picked it up in the first place), I would have to say it is definitely one of Austen's under-acknowledged novels. I hope more people than just die-hard Austen fans will read it, because in terms of chick-lit love stories, it is right there with any Gone with the Wind or Jane Eyre.
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2 comments:
There are a few poignant moments in Persuasion too. On a very odd level, I identified with Anne -- something which I rarely do with Austen's characters.
I totally agree with you. AND, one of the younger members of the book club--who is VERY well read--said that she simply cannot get through Dickens. She has tried a number of his books. She says she just can't do it.
If anyone out there truly does enjoy Charles Dickens' books, please let us know what it is you enjoy. I'd be very interested.
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