Jane Austen's Little Book About Life

by Jane Austen, Terry W. Glaspey (Editor)

Timeless Wisdom from the 19th Century Jane Austen's novels have delighted readers for generations with their keen observations on the human condition and contain a wealth of practical insights and humorous quips on relationships, faith, family, love, character, and virtue. Celebrate Jane's wit and wisdom with this charming collection of quotes from the mouths of some of her most beloved characters and from her own letters. Inside this exquisitely designed book, you'll also enjoy rare photos from the British Library, selected Scripture verses, and personal prayers from the author herself, making this a must read for you or a welcomed gift for the Jane Austen enthusiast in your life. Join fellow Austenite and author of The Prayers of Jane Austen , Terry Glaspey, in revisiting Jane's most memorable and thought-provoking lines.

Genres: Nonfiction

80 pages, Hardcover

Published April 2, 2019

About the author

Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, which implicitly interpret, critique, and comment upon the English landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Austen's plots often explore the dependence of women on marriage for the pursuit of favourable social standing and economic security. Her works are an implicit critique of the novels of sensibility of the second half of the 18th century and are part of the transition to 19th-century literary realism. Her deft use of social commentary, realism and biting irony have earned her acclaim among critics and scholars.

The anonymously published Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), and Emma (1816), were a modest success but brought her little fame in her lifetime. She wrote two other novels—Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, both published posthumously in 1817—and began another, eventually titled Sanditon, but died before its completion. She also left behind three volumes of juvenile writings in manuscript, the short epistolary novel Lady Susan, and the unfinished novel The Watsons.
Since her death Austen's novels have rarely been out of print. A significant transition in her reputation occurred in 1833, when they were republished in Richard Bentley's Standard Novels series (illustrated by Ferdinand Pickering and sold as a set). They gradually gained wide acclaim and popular readership. In 1869, fifty-two years after her death, her nephew's publication of A Memoir of Jane Austen introduced a compelling version of her writing career and supposedly uneventful life to an eager audience. Her work has inspired a large number of critical essays and has been included in many literary anthologies. Her novels have also inspired many films, including 1940's Pride and Prejudice, 1995's Sense and Sensibility and 2016's Love & Friendship.

Reviews

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

With such a gorgeous cloth and gold gilt cover and a gift-worthy presentation of the pages inside, I couldn't resist when I spotted this little slim volume at a sale. Jane Austen is so very quotable that I was eager to see what quotes the author selected for the handful of topics on the subject of life.

With the quotes placed into their topics and then the quote pages separated by lovely artistic etchings from Austen's novels, this was a feast for the eyes as well as the mind. From humorous wit to solemn reflection, this was a treat.

Side note: I don't normally remark on pricing, but I will simply say that this 79 pg volume might be a tad over-priced at full price.

Would definitely recommend as a gift or a little treat for Austen lovers or those who enjoy literary quotes.

[Danette · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read.
Makes me want to read some Jane Austen.

[Rochelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect little gift book for fans of Jane Austen. The book is divided into sections with advice from her books about handling different aspects of life. It also includes some of Jane's prayers. It also has beautifully drawn illustrations. It is short and can be read in one sitting. I really enjoyed reading it.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful little book that has quotes on friendship, love, and living from Austen’s novels and personal writings. This is a sweet book for any Austen fan. I found myself chuckling about some of the quotes, knowing the context (a quote from Charlotte Lucas about love in particular made me laugh).

[Martha Curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of Jane Austen you will love this little book.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick but enjoyable read featuring some of the best quotes from Austen's novels, divided into different topics.