I Was Jane Austen's Best Friend
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4.4 • 12 Ratings
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- $7.99
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- $7.99
Publisher Description
When shy Jenny Cooper goes to stay with her cousin Jane Austen, she knows nothing of the world of beautiful dresses, dances, secrets, gossip, and romance that Jane inhabits. At fifteen, Jane is already a sharp observer of the customs of courtship. So when Jenny falls utterly in love with Captain Thomas Williams, who better than Jane to help her win the heart of this dashing man?
But is that even possible? After all, Jenny’s been harboring a most desperate secret. Should it become known, it would bring scandal not only to her, but also to the wonderful Austen family. What’s a poor orphan girl to do?
In this delicious dance between truth and fiction, Cora Harrison has crafted Jenny’s secret diary by reading everything Jane Austen wrote as a child and an adult, and by researching biographies, critical studies, and family letters. Jenny’s diary makes the past spring vividly to life and provides insight into the entire Austen family—especially the beloved Jane.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Who wouldn't want to be a fly on the wall while Jane Austen grew up, had adventures, and went to balls? Or better yet, her most trusted friend and confidante? Harrison introduces readers to Austen via the chronicles of Jenny Cooper, Austen's "best friend" and an avid diarist. Jenny is sweet and observant, and Harrison evokes the time period in both the mannerisms and attitudes of her characters, as well as what historians know of Austen's life. Yet the diary format does not always lend itself well to plot development. Decorated with line drawings (ostensibly Jenny's) of clothing, people, etc., Jenny's lengthy and detailed internal monologues about a variety of events that take place over several months in 1791 tell more than they demonstrate through dialogue and interaction. The prose is light and accessible, but can be awkward, as in passages that try to convey urgency. Like anything to do with Austen, the promise of romance is never far: Jenny's intrigue for Capt. Thomas Williams is sparked early on, challenged by a flirtation with Jane's handsome brother Henry, and rekindled, of course, at a ball. Ages 12 up.
Customer Reviews
I was Jane Austen's Best Friend
Best book I have ever read! Hard to put down. And I totally recommend it!
I was Jane Austen's best friend.
My favorite book. Soo good.
Amazing!!
This was an amazing book could not ask for better!