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A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice
Witty and mischievous Jane Austen grew up in a house overflowing with words. As a young girl, she delighted in making her family laugh with tales that poked fun at the popular novels of her time, stories that featured fragile ladies and ridiculous plots. Before long, Jane was writing her own stories-uproariously funny ones, using all the details of her life in a country village as inspiration.
In times of joy, Jane's words burst from her pen. But after facing sorrow and loss, she wondered if she'd ever write again. Jane realized her writing would not be truly her own until she found her unique voice. She didn't know it then, but that voice would go on to capture readers' hearts and minds for generations to come.
In times of joy, Jane's words burst from her pen. But after facing sorrow and loss, she wondered if she'd ever write again. Jane realized her writing would not be truly her own until she found her unique voice. She didn't know it then, but that voice would go on to capture readers' hearts and minds for generations to come.
42 pages, Hardcover
First published March 30, 2021
6 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Jasmine A. Stirling
2 books20 followersJasmine A. Stirling grew up in a town without a movie theater and a house without a television. From a young age, she loved to write poems and stories, and she worked her way through nearly every children’s book (and quite a few for grown-ups, too) in her local library. Jasmine now lives in San Francisco with her husband, two young daughters, and their dog. A Most Clever Girl is her first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 23, 2025
Everyone knows the adult Jane Austen - author of Pride & Prejudice, Emma, Persuasion and more.
She's been an absolute icon for centuries.
But once she was a little girl. And this is her story.
This wonderful children's book takes on one of literatures greatest writers and brings her childhood to life.
It should come to NO surprise that I absolutely LOVED this book.
I'm a HUGE Jane Austen fan and I've always been curious about her childhood.
What was life like when she was a kid? What inspired her to write? What did other people think of her?
Well, this book answers all that a and more. It was so neat to watch her childhood unfold and her transition to adult life.
The pictures were stunning and brought a little extra oomph to the story.
All in all - a truly fabulous read.
A HUGE thank you to Bloomsbury Children's Books for sending this one my way!
April 29, 2021
This is an excellent and inspiring introduction to Jane Austen for any curious new reader. Instead of focusing on her life story, the author focuses on Jane's writing and how Jane rejected the ridiculous conventions of the Georgian era and went for characters she knew and could relate to. This book is the first biography I've seen that actually explains what Jane read and how she revolutionized literature. Even though the situations have changed in the last 200 years, the characters are still relatable, something that can't be said for The Monk or The Castle of Otranto. I love the illustration of young Jane reading the "horrid" novels and laughing at them. I can absolutely see her doing that. I could quibble and say she also read comedy- Shakespeare, Henry Fieldingand Oliver Goldsmith seem to have been influences but I won't. The author's note says her intent was to focus on Jane's genius: where did it come from? How do artists learn and grow over time? She wants children to see that genius is a result of experimentation, persistence and life's hard-won battles.
Genius must have time and space to flourish. The author and illustrator show this effectively with the Austens' crowded home full of unruly boys, Mr. Austen's retirement and the move to Bath, Jane's dark period in Bath and Southampton and finally, back in Hampshire at Chawton where she was able to write again. This is the first biography for kids that acknowledges the unproductive period in Jane's life. The transition from happy, carefree childhood to sad adulthood and to bittersweet middle age is shown in the artist's color palette which also reflects colors found in nature, colors that were popular in the Regency period. I appreciate that.
I also love the small details that show the illustrator did her research. Jane is shown reading real books of the 18th-century, Cassandra is doing a watercolor sketch of a woman with her back facing the sitter wearing a wide-brimmed bonnet. Do some research and you'll find Cassandra's sketch, believed to be Jane. I love seeing the Austens performing plays, Eliza flirting with Henry, Frank in his uniform, and the Prince Regent (considerably thinner than he actually was) reading one of Jane's novels. This is the only illustrated biography I've seen that attempts to get the details correct. I can be nitpicky and say Jane had hazel eyes not blue but we don't really know that for sure and sometimes hazel can appear blue.
The author uses Jane's own words to illustrate a point, usually out of context because the words come from novels and also her "Three or four families in a country village" advice. However, in the back of the book the quotes are attributed to the correct sources. There's also an "About Jane Austen" biographical note, a note from the author, a list of Jane's novels, Jane Austen resources for young readers, a note from the illustrator and selected bibliography.
I would recommend this to older kids and adults just discovering Jane's genius for the first time.
Genius must have time and space to flourish. The author and illustrator show this effectively with the Austens' crowded home full of unruly boys, Mr. Austen's retirement and the move to Bath, Jane's dark period in Bath and Southampton and finally, back in Hampshire at Chawton where she was able to write again. This is the first biography for kids that acknowledges the unproductive period in Jane's life. The transition from happy, carefree childhood to sad adulthood and to bittersweet middle age is shown in the artist's color palette which also reflects colors found in nature, colors that were popular in the Regency period. I appreciate that.
I also love the small details that show the illustrator did her research. Jane is shown reading real books of the 18th-century, Cassandra is doing a watercolor sketch of a woman with her back facing the sitter wearing a wide-brimmed bonnet. Do some research and you'll find Cassandra's sketch, believed to be Jane. I love seeing the Austens performing plays, Eliza flirting with Henry, Frank in his uniform, and the Prince Regent (considerably thinner than he actually was) reading one of Jane's novels. This is the only illustrated biography I've seen that attempts to get the details correct. I can be nitpicky and say Jane had hazel eyes not blue but we don't really know that for sure and sometimes hazel can appear blue.
The author uses Jane's own words to illustrate a point, usually out of context because the words come from novels and also her "Three or four families in a country village" advice. However, in the back of the book the quotes are attributed to the correct sources. There's also an "About Jane Austen" biographical note, a note from the author, a list of Jane's novels, Jane Austen resources for young readers, a note from the illustrator and selected bibliography.
I would recommend this to older kids and adults just discovering Jane's genius for the first time.
September 1, 2021
First-time author Jasmine A. Stirling and illustrator Vesper Stamper team up in this lovely picture-book biography of Jane Austen, chronicling some of her major life events, and the gradual maturation process whereby the famous writer discovered her narrative voice. Raised in a comfortable and loving family, Austen grew to womanhood in rural Hampshire, indulged and encouraged by her father in her storytelling and writing. The loss of her childhood home, and then of her father a few years later, led to a period of intellectual inactivity, but eventually Austen did find her voice, penning some of the best-known novels in the English language...
Although I have read all of Austen's novels, as well as a healthy smattering of her juvenilia, I have never read any biography of her, and am therefore ill equipped to judge how accurate of a picture Stirling creates here. That said, from a literary perspective I found A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice quite convincing. When reading that Austen laughed at the over-the-top Gothic novels of her day, I immediately thought of Northanger Abbey . When seeing Austen at the dinner table with family and friends, I thought of some of her dinnertime scenes, in novels like Pride and Prejudice . One really gets a sense of Austen, and of the world that created her in this title, just as one gets a sense of how the events of her life shaped her vision of that world, and the stories she wanted to tell about it. I really appreciated Stirling's afterword, in which she discusses her aim in this book, which is to explore Jane Austen's genius, and where it came from. I have had a number of conversations of late, about the weaknesses of so many recent picture-book biographies about women, so when I read Stirling's statement that: "So many of our narratives about women in history revolve around them being the first to do one thing or another. In this book, I wanted to tell a different kind of story," I wanted to cheer.
The accompanying artwork here from Vesper Stamper is beautiful. I particularly liked the decorative endpapers, which my library thoughtfully kept viewable by glueing the dust-jacket to the book at the book edges, but leaving the flaps liftable. The use of color here was particularly well done, with Austen's childhood depicted in full color, and her middle years in shades of grey. I also liked all of the little historical details - things like Jane's writing desk, which was a gift from her father - that Stamper got right. All in all, a wonderful first introduction to this key figure of English literature, one I would recommend to picture-book readers who enjoy biography, or are interested in writers.
Although I have read all of Austen's novels, as well as a healthy smattering of her juvenilia, I have never read any biography of her, and am therefore ill equipped to judge how accurate of a picture Stirling creates here. That said, from a literary perspective I found A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice quite convincing. When reading that Austen laughed at the over-the-top Gothic novels of her day, I immediately thought of Northanger Abbey . When seeing Austen at the dinner table with family and friends, I thought of some of her dinnertime scenes, in novels like Pride and Prejudice . One really gets a sense of Austen, and of the world that created her in this title, just as one gets a sense of how the events of her life shaped her vision of that world, and the stories she wanted to tell about it. I really appreciated Stirling's afterword, in which she discusses her aim in this book, which is to explore Jane Austen's genius, and where it came from. I have had a number of conversations of late, about the weaknesses of so many recent picture-book biographies about women, so when I read Stirling's statement that: "So many of our narratives about women in history revolve around them being the first to do one thing or another. In this book, I wanted to tell a different kind of story," I wanted to cheer.
The accompanying artwork here from Vesper Stamper is beautiful. I particularly liked the decorative endpapers, which my library thoughtfully kept viewable by glueing the dust-jacket to the book at the book edges, but leaving the flaps liftable. The use of color here was particularly well done, with Austen's childhood depicted in full color, and her middle years in shades of grey. I also liked all of the little historical details - things like Jane's writing desk, which was a gift from her father - that Stamper got right. All in all, a wonderful first introduction to this key figure of English literature, one I would recommend to picture-book readers who enjoy biography, or are interested in writers.
January 19, 2023
A wonderful children’s biography picturebook about the legendary writer and a woman before her time - Jane Austen. Told from her early childhood to adulthood, this book does a marvelous job at telling her life story in a way that younger readers can understand and relate to. With beautiful illustrations and a rich color scheme, this biography is not only interesting to read, it is beautiful to look at too! –Jenny L.
March 19, 2021
An enchanting illustrated children's book inspired by Jane Austen's "origin story" that will charm, delight, inspire, and entertain young and old alike.
June 24, 2021
Excellent biography of Jane Austen suitable for the elementary crowd but full of information and insights that even adult fans of Austen should enjoy and appreciate. While I've never read any full-fledged Austen biographies, I feel I'm familiar enough with her story that I discern that Stirling's research is spot-on and also appreciate her particular focus (on Jane's genius and creative process, what nurtured or stunted her creativity, etc.) and felt that I saw Jane in a more nuanced way after reading this. The author's note is exceptional and, while I admit I didn't totally love the illustrations, I appreciated them (and all the more so after reading the illustrator's note) and felt they did a good job of conveying the era and emotions they needed to convey. I'm dashing this review off as the book is quite popular (yay) and due back at the library with no renewals allowed so I don't have the time to give it the full review it deserves. Please check out QNPoohBear's excellent review for more details! :-) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 28, 2022
A lovely picture book about Austen's writing career. More than other books, this one focuses on her literary output and how her life affected her writing. I haven't seen another book incorporate her juvenilia so well, nor one that weaves in quotations seamlessly. Stirling focuses on Jane's connection to her family and the support she received from her parents (especially father) and sister, and how they faced life's difficulties together.
The illustrations are particularly lovely, based on popular textile colors of Austen's day. Color palettes are carefully chosen to communicate mood and theme. I love how Stamper used facsimiles of Austen's own handwriting in her illustrations, whenever she drew a letter or manuscript.
Definitely want a copy for my library, to be placed alongside Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen.
The illustrations are particularly lovely, based on popular textile colors of Austen's day. Color palettes are carefully chosen to communicate mood and theme. I love how Stamper used facsimiles of Austen's own handwriting in her illustrations, whenever she drew a letter or manuscript.
Definitely want a copy for my library, to be placed alongside Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen.
November 5, 2021
An Inspiring and Authentic Tale For Children
Illustrated by: Vesper Stamper
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Publisher
Even though I am not a young reader myself, I have always had such fondness and appreciation for any books or series that introduce Jane Austen to young readers and children. It’s never too early, right? A Most Clever Girl by Jasmine A. Stirling presents an honest yet accessible depiction of Jane Austen’s journey with writing – from the early days of her playful Juvenilia to her published novels and acclaim with pertinent details about her childhood, family and major life events.
There is so much I loved about this book, it is hard to know where to start! Most importantly, I loved the theme of Jane Austen finding her voice and the aspirational message of persevering through life’s challenges. In addition, I greatly appreciated the accurate picture Ms. Stirling painted of Jane Austen’s world – illustrating the joyful times, the sad moments, and the realities she faced as a dependent young woman living in the 1800’s. And lastly, I admired the subtle and fitting ways Ms. Stirling utilized Jane Austen’s own quotes in this tale. It was a great way for the reader to recognize Jane Austen’s talent with words for themselves.
As for the illustrations by Vesper Stamper, they are simply marvelous! I love all the detail, thought, and vibrancy of each page. The colors, the flowers, the prints of fabric, the book pages, the of scenes of Steventon and Bath were exceptionally-drawn, imaginative, and beautiful to behold. In addition, I admired how the illustrations always mirrored and aptly expressed the mood of the text. And I especially enjoyed the few images that I believe harkened back to familiar portraits associated with Jane Austen.
A Most Clever Girl is a thoughtfully-composed and exquisitely-illustrated tale about Jane Austen finding her way that will be sure to delight readers young and old! It is evident that this book was crafted together by an author and illustrator who both share a strong affection and appreciation for Jane Austen, her legacy, and her words. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Illustrated by: Vesper Stamper
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Publisher
Even though I am not a young reader myself, I have always had such fondness and appreciation for any books or series that introduce Jane Austen to young readers and children. It’s never too early, right? A Most Clever Girl by Jasmine A. Stirling presents an honest yet accessible depiction of Jane Austen’s journey with writing – from the early days of her playful Juvenilia to her published novels and acclaim with pertinent details about her childhood, family and major life events.
There is so much I loved about this book, it is hard to know where to start! Most importantly, I loved the theme of Jane Austen finding her voice and the aspirational message of persevering through life’s challenges. In addition, I greatly appreciated the accurate picture Ms. Stirling painted of Jane Austen’s world – illustrating the joyful times, the sad moments, and the realities she faced as a dependent young woman living in the 1800’s. And lastly, I admired the subtle and fitting ways Ms. Stirling utilized Jane Austen’s own quotes in this tale. It was a great way for the reader to recognize Jane Austen’s talent with words for themselves.
As for the illustrations by Vesper Stamper, they are simply marvelous! I love all the detail, thought, and vibrancy of each page. The colors, the flowers, the prints of fabric, the book pages, the of scenes of Steventon and Bath were exceptionally-drawn, imaginative, and beautiful to behold. In addition, I admired how the illustrations always mirrored and aptly expressed the mood of the text. And I especially enjoyed the few images that I believe harkened back to familiar portraits associated with Jane Austen.
A Most Clever Girl is a thoughtfully-composed and exquisitely-illustrated tale about Jane Austen finding her way that will be sure to delight readers young and old! It is evident that this book was crafted together by an author and illustrator who both share a strong affection and appreciation for Jane Austen, her legacy, and her words. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
June 24, 2021
There are many good books to read to your family, but I highly recommend this one. Partly because it’s about Jane Austen. Partly for the illustrations. And partly because it’s culture.
August 20, 2021
A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice is a children's picture book by Jasmine A. Stirling and illustrated by Vesper Stamper. Effervescent text peppered with Austen's own words tells the story of the beloved novelist, showing how greatness can unfold and how exciting creativity can be.
Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six major novels, which interpret, critique and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century.
Stirling's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Stirling details the early life of Jane Austen and how these events shaped her life. Backmatter includes a biographical note, author's note, illustrator's note, novels, resources, bibliography. Light, pastel-colored interiors share space with gray outdoor scenes, stable verticals and horizontals suggesting the intellectual limitations she encountered.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Myriad threads of Austen's early attempts at satire; her participation in family theatrics; the education her family supported and provided; the financial and personal losses she suffered; her rebellion against literary trends; her growth as an artist; her wit, resilience, and observant nature, all come together to present an engaging portrait accompanied by detailed and engaging illustrations that entwine with the story and give a strong sense of the era.
All in all, A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice is an informative, engaging depiction of the life and growth of an exceptional literary talent.
Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six major novels, which interpret, critique and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century.
Stirling's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Stirling details the early life of Jane Austen and how these events shaped her life. Backmatter includes a biographical note, author's note, illustrator's note, novels, resources, bibliography. Light, pastel-colored interiors share space with gray outdoor scenes, stable verticals and horizontals suggesting the intellectual limitations she encountered.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Myriad threads of Austen's early attempts at satire; her participation in family theatrics; the education her family supported and provided; the financial and personal losses she suffered; her rebellion against literary trends; her growth as an artist; her wit, resilience, and observant nature, all come together to present an engaging portrait accompanied by detailed and engaging illustrations that entwine with the story and give a strong sense of the era.
All in all, A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice is an informative, engaging depiction of the life and growth of an exceptional literary talent.
April 6, 2022
A good introduction to the life and work of Jane Austen for young readers. Don't forget to read the historical noted in the back.
February 21, 2021
Words flowed in the house where Jane Austen grew up, whether through reading, poetry recitations, debates over current events, song, lectures, or performances. She had always been a clever writer, but cleverness wasn't enough for her—something was missing. This intriguing backstory for a much-beloved author reveals the touching reasons she learned to create complicated and memorable characters, including the role her ever-supportive father played in her growth as a writer. With green and soft-red strawberry hues, A Most Clever Girl welcomes you into Jane's home in the English countryside. Through italicized prose that quotes from her books woven throughout, readers get a taste of what made her writing style a classic.
March 22, 2021
First sentence: Jane loved stories--long ones, short ones, worn and new.
Premise/plot: A Most Clever Girl is a picture book biography of Jane Austen. The narrative has a specific focus: how did Jane Austen find her voice? or to word it a different way, how did Austen find her own unique narrative style? The book focuses on her love of READING and WRITING and sharing stories with family and friends. Along the way, readers learn a bit more about Austen's family and the times in which she grew up.
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. Probably my favorite thing about this picture book is that it includes Austen quotes throughout the narrative. The words that appears in italics are from Austen herself. (Adults can find the sources for these quotes in the back matter.) I also appreciated how this picture book provides context for reading and appreciating Austen's novels.
Is it really written for children? Or is it written for adults? I think that's a fair enough question. I do think there are plenty of adults who love, love, love Jane Austen who have daughters (and sons), granddaughters (and grandsons), nieces (and nephews). I could see this appealing to Austen fans regardless if they have children in their lives.
I am not someone who thinks that picture books are ONLY for children. I'm not. I think readers of all ages can read and enjoy picture books. I think you never outgrow a good story.
Have you read this one? What did you think about it?
Premise/plot: A Most Clever Girl is a picture book biography of Jane Austen. The narrative has a specific focus: how did Jane Austen find her voice? or to word it a different way, how did Austen find her own unique narrative style? The book focuses on her love of READING and WRITING and sharing stories with family and friends. Along the way, readers learn a bit more about Austen's family and the times in which she grew up.
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. Probably my favorite thing about this picture book is that it includes Austen quotes throughout the narrative. The words that appears in italics are from Austen herself. (Adults can find the sources for these quotes in the back matter.) I also appreciated how this picture book provides context for reading and appreciating Austen's novels.
Is it really written for children? Or is it written for adults? I think that's a fair enough question. I do think there are plenty of adults who love, love, love Jane Austen who have daughters (and sons), granddaughters (and grandsons), nieces (and nephews). I could see this appealing to Austen fans regardless if they have children in their lives.
I am not someone who thinks that picture books are ONLY for children. I'm not. I think readers of all ages can read and enjoy picture books. I think you never outgrow a good story.
Have you read this one? What did you think about it?
April 12, 2021
A Most Clever is a thoughtfully presented picture book for readers aged 4-12 that focuses on Jane Austen’s life as a writer: her inspirations, writing process, and challenges.
Author Jasmine Stirling treats her young readers with respect and gives them an inspiring yet truthful account of Austen’s life and struggles as a female writer in late Georgian England. Woven throughout the story, are short quotes from Austen’s own writing which add to the text’s lively and musical quality and make it a great book to read aloud.
Vesper Stamper’s fairytale-like yet historically minded illustrations complement the biographical nature of the text. The book’s colour palette is inspired by the textile shades popular in Austen’s day, while the images themselves are the product of Stamper’s sketching trip to England.
The book concludes with an extensive section of additional material including A Note from the Author and the Illustrator, a Selected Bibliography, and a Works Cited list that will be sure to please young and older readers alike.
A Most Clever Girl is a well-rounded and well-researched introduction to Jane Austen that will undoubtedly inspire many young readers into becoming future Austenites.
Thank you to Jasmine Stirling and Bloomsbury Publishing for gifting me this copy of of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice.
Author Jasmine Stirling treats her young readers with respect and gives them an inspiring yet truthful account of Austen’s life and struggles as a female writer in late Georgian England. Woven throughout the story, are short quotes from Austen’s own writing which add to the text’s lively and musical quality and make it a great book to read aloud.
Vesper Stamper’s fairytale-like yet historically minded illustrations complement the biographical nature of the text. The book’s colour palette is inspired by the textile shades popular in Austen’s day, while the images themselves are the product of Stamper’s sketching trip to England.
The book concludes with an extensive section of additional material including A Note from the Author and the Illustrator, a Selected Bibliography, and a Works Cited list that will be sure to please young and older readers alike.
A Most Clever Girl is a well-rounded and well-researched introduction to Jane Austen that will undoubtedly inspire many young readers into becoming future Austenites.
Thank you to Jasmine Stirling and Bloomsbury Publishing for gifting me this copy of of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice.
April 6, 2021
A must have for Jane Austen fans!
I absolutely adore this book. @jasmine.a.stirling.author & @vesperillustration have done a beautiful job at bringing the story of Jane Austen to life. Not only do you fall in love with her as a child, you will love her family, their magical home life, and appreciate the writer Jane Austen becomes through the love, heartache, struggles, and all she experienced in her life.
A Most Clever Girl celebrates one of the most influential literary writers. I love the way Stirling wrote this story, and the way Stamper’s illustrations brought it to life. It’s evident this book was a work of inspiration. I highly recommend reading both the author and illustrator notes at the end.
I absolutely adore this book. @jasmine.a.stirling.author & @vesperillustration have done a beautiful job at bringing the story of Jane Austen to life. Not only do you fall in love with her as a child, you will love her family, their magical home life, and appreciate the writer Jane Austen becomes through the love, heartache, struggles, and all she experienced in her life.
A Most Clever Girl celebrates one of the most influential literary writers. I love the way Stirling wrote this story, and the way Stamper’s illustrations brought it to life. It’s evident this book was a work of inspiration. I highly recommend reading both the author and illustrator notes at the end.
July 28, 2021
I'm experiencing a personal renaissance of interest in all things Austen. It's probably habit(I used to binge it before the college semester started). Anyway...
Delightful illustrations and insightful thoughts here. And the backmatter(I learned that term at a conference I attended and I feel smart that I now know to look for it) was superb. I hope things like this keep being written and printed.
Also, can I just say that Vesper is an awesome name?! However they got it, I totally approve.
Delightful illustrations and insightful thoughts here. And the backmatter(I learned that term at a conference I attended and I feel smart that I now know to look for it) was superb. I hope things like this keep being written and printed.
Also, can I just say that Vesper is an awesome name?! However they got it, I totally approve.
October 29, 2021
Jane Austen loved stories, which was just as well as she grew up in a house full of words. She especially loved telling stories that made fun of the popular novels of her time, the ones about fainting ladies, street orphans and people who fell in love at first sight.
Taking inspiration from her own experiences of life in the countryside, she began writing her own stories. In happy times words flowed as freely as the summer’s breeze. In sad times, words would freeze like the frost on a winter’s morning. One day the words dried up altogether. Would Jane ever write again? She would, and when she did pick up the pen it would be with a very unique author voice that would be celebrated around the world…
If like me, you know of Jane Austen’s famous literary works - Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, Emma, but know little of the author, what sparked her passion for writing and where her ideas came from then this is a super starting point. It is a brilliant child-friendly introduction to one of England’s most well-loved authors and how she discovered her voice to write all of the classics that are still read around the world long after her death.
We follow Jane’s journey from cheeky, witty and mischievous childhood entertainer through to life-hardened and observant adult who rebelled against literary conventions. Jasmine A. Stirling does a wonderful job of telling Jane Austen’s story; the happy family childhood home, theatrics in the barn, having the unique opportunity to grow into something more than just an obedient wife, her utter disdain for the fluff stories of her time, her early funny story sessions with the family where she would poke fun at popular novels, financial and personal losses, troubles with writer’s block and finally publishing her novels. The whole read is fascinating and provides many an insight into the world that Jane lived in and how her experiences shaped her writing.
It wasn’t an easy journey to the top and at the heart of the story is a girl who suffered grief and adversity but Austen’s story is testament to what can be achieved with a supportive family, perseverance, the powers of creativity and is proof that good things can arise out of the darkest times. Young readers with aspirations of becoming authors will love Austen’s story and all readers can take heart from how Jane nurtured her talent to achieve greatness.
Thoroughly researched by both author and illustrator their love for the book shines through from beginning to end. From the front cover to the beautiful end papers to the rich back matter, this is one of the best picture book biographies I have read. The words, that are sprinkled throughout with quotations from Austen’s famous works, bring her to life on every page and exquisite illustrations, done using a palette that comes from the textile shades that were popular in Jane’s time, just beg to be pored over.
Superb.
Recommended for 7+.
Taking inspiration from her own experiences of life in the countryside, she began writing her own stories. In happy times words flowed as freely as the summer’s breeze. In sad times, words would freeze like the frost on a winter’s morning. One day the words dried up altogether. Would Jane ever write again? She would, and when she did pick up the pen it would be with a very unique author voice that would be celebrated around the world…
If like me, you know of Jane Austen’s famous literary works - Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, Emma, but know little of the author, what sparked her passion for writing and where her ideas came from then this is a super starting point. It is a brilliant child-friendly introduction to one of England’s most well-loved authors and how she discovered her voice to write all of the classics that are still read around the world long after her death.
We follow Jane’s journey from cheeky, witty and mischievous childhood entertainer through to life-hardened and observant adult who rebelled against literary conventions. Jasmine A. Stirling does a wonderful job of telling Jane Austen’s story; the happy family childhood home, theatrics in the barn, having the unique opportunity to grow into something more than just an obedient wife, her utter disdain for the fluff stories of her time, her early funny story sessions with the family where she would poke fun at popular novels, financial and personal losses, troubles with writer’s block and finally publishing her novels. The whole read is fascinating and provides many an insight into the world that Jane lived in and how her experiences shaped her writing.
It wasn’t an easy journey to the top and at the heart of the story is a girl who suffered grief and adversity but Austen’s story is testament to what can be achieved with a supportive family, perseverance, the powers of creativity and is proof that good things can arise out of the darkest times. Young readers with aspirations of becoming authors will love Austen’s story and all readers can take heart from how Jane nurtured her talent to achieve greatness.
Thoroughly researched by both author and illustrator their love for the book shines through from beginning to end. From the front cover to the beautiful end papers to the rich back matter, this is one of the best picture book biographies I have read. The words, that are sprinkled throughout with quotations from Austen’s famous works, bring her to life on every page and exquisite illustrations, done using a palette that comes from the textile shades that were popular in Jane’s time, just beg to be pored over.
Superb.
Recommended for 7+.
July 29, 2021
Jane Austen was born on December 16, 1775 and lived only to age 41 (cause of death unknown), but managed to become one of the most popular novelists of all time. Her six major books, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey, and Persuasion, have gone through countless reprints, movie adaptations, and retellings, and have been analyzed extensively by scholars.
Author Jasmine Stirling takes a look at Jane’s life beginning when Jane was a young girl who liked to write silly stories poking fun at the “fluff” popular for readers at the time. She grew up with six brothers and one sister, as well as three or four boys who lived with them and were educated by Jane’s father. The author writes:
“Words echoed joyfully through the house. Her mother wrote and recited poetry in one room while her brothers debated the news in the next. Jane and her sister, Cassandra, sang songs upstairs as her father taught the wonders of Shakespeare to students below. . . . Words made Jane happy. Her family made her happy. Jane knew her own happiness and chased it.”
Jane struggled to find her own voice, writing about what she observed around her. But something was missing, and she didn’t know what it was. Years passed, and “life became a quick succession of busy nothings.” Then her beloved father died, leaving the family in dire financial straits to boot, and no words came at all. Finally she made her way through the pain and loneliness and began to write again. The author observes:
“Jane’s voice was clever, as it had been in her childhood.
It was still filled with real people.
But grief and loss had added something new.
Jane’s voice was wise.”
Jane picked up the books she had started writing ten years earlier and revised them: “The clever, real, and wise were all mixed together in a way that was completely new.”
Her books were published and became wildly popular. She even got a request from the librarian working for George IV, the future king of England, who asked her to write “one of those sticky-sweet love stories" that Jane just couldn’t stand. . . ." She declined his request, writing to him:
“I could not sit seriously down to write a serious Romance under any other motive than to save my life . . . No, I must keep to my own style & go on in my own way.”
Stirling concludes that after this, Jane "finally knew. . . . [that she] had found her voice.”
Award-winning illustrator Vesper Stamper explains in a note at the end of the book, “England has always been my happy place. . . . ” So to work on this book, she “got on a plane and took a walk in Jane’s footsteps.” She writes that she wanted to capture the beauty of Jane’s Hampshire countryside but also show through her art how Jane’s emotions evolved over time. She changed the colors of the story to reflect Jane’s inner journey throughout her life - vibrant pinks in her youth, a grayer time in her middle years, and lush greens when she found a new maturity. Most interestingly, she says that “the book’s palette comes from textile shades that were popular in Jane’s time.” Period costumes and other historical touches are excellent and full of fascinating detail. Consumers of children’s picture books don’t always realize how much research and effort go into the art work, especially when it so seamlessly helps illuminate the narrative.
The book ends with a section called “About Jane Austen” with background for adults, quotations from Austen’s work, an Author’s Note, Illustrator’s Note, resources for young readers, and a select bibliography. The Author’s Note begins cleverly, paraphrasing one of Austin’s most famous lines: “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a girl with an astonishing appetite for books must grow up to have a great many literary heroines.” The author recounts that while she was studying at college, she “fell head over heels for the Austens and even more deeply in love with Jane.” She especially appreciated Jane’s “spirited and complex characters, her wit, and her passion for moderation.. She adds:
“So many of our narratives about women in history revolve around them being the first to do one thing or another. In this book, I wanted to tell a different kind of story - one centered on Jane’s genius. Where did it come from? And more broadly, how do artists learn and grow over time? I wanted children to see that genius is the product of experimentation, persistence, and life’s hard-won battles.”
She definitely accomplished that goal with this book for children aged 5 and over, imparting the important message that if success is elusive, don’t despair - be patient and you may yet reach your goals. Jane’s talent wasn’t immediately apparent, but took a lot of work and a willingness to buck convention.
Evaluation: Even kids who aren't [yet] familiar with Jane Austen will enjoy this story and its depiction through both words and pictures of Regency England. Moreover, the message that success is not always immediate will inspire and encourage children who fear they may never excel.
Author Jasmine Stirling takes a look at Jane’s life beginning when Jane was a young girl who liked to write silly stories poking fun at the “fluff” popular for readers at the time. She grew up with six brothers and one sister, as well as three or four boys who lived with them and were educated by Jane’s father. The author writes:
“Words echoed joyfully through the house. Her mother wrote and recited poetry in one room while her brothers debated the news in the next. Jane and her sister, Cassandra, sang songs upstairs as her father taught the wonders of Shakespeare to students below. . . . Words made Jane happy. Her family made her happy. Jane knew her own happiness and chased it.”
Jane struggled to find her own voice, writing about what she observed around her. But something was missing, and she didn’t know what it was. Years passed, and “life became a quick succession of busy nothings.” Then her beloved father died, leaving the family in dire financial straits to boot, and no words came at all. Finally she made her way through the pain and loneliness and began to write again. The author observes:
“Jane’s voice was clever, as it had been in her childhood.
It was still filled with real people.
But grief and loss had added something new.
Jane’s voice was wise.”
Jane picked up the books she had started writing ten years earlier and revised them: “The clever, real, and wise were all mixed together in a way that was completely new.”
Her books were published and became wildly popular. She even got a request from the librarian working for George IV, the future king of England, who asked her to write “one of those sticky-sweet love stories" that Jane just couldn’t stand. . . ." She declined his request, writing to him:
“I could not sit seriously down to write a serious Romance under any other motive than to save my life . . . No, I must keep to my own style & go on in my own way.”
Stirling concludes that after this, Jane "finally knew. . . . [that she] had found her voice.”
Award-winning illustrator Vesper Stamper explains in a note at the end of the book, “England has always been my happy place. . . . ” So to work on this book, she “got on a plane and took a walk in Jane’s footsteps.” She writes that she wanted to capture the beauty of Jane’s Hampshire countryside but also show through her art how Jane’s emotions evolved over time. She changed the colors of the story to reflect Jane’s inner journey throughout her life - vibrant pinks in her youth, a grayer time in her middle years, and lush greens when she found a new maturity. Most interestingly, she says that “the book’s palette comes from textile shades that were popular in Jane’s time.” Period costumes and other historical touches are excellent and full of fascinating detail. Consumers of children’s picture books don’t always realize how much research and effort go into the art work, especially when it so seamlessly helps illuminate the narrative.
The book ends with a section called “About Jane Austen” with background for adults, quotations from Austen’s work, an Author’s Note, Illustrator’s Note, resources for young readers, and a select bibliography. The Author’s Note begins cleverly, paraphrasing one of Austin’s most famous lines: “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a girl with an astonishing appetite for books must grow up to have a great many literary heroines.” The author recounts that while she was studying at college, she “fell head over heels for the Austens and even more deeply in love with Jane.” She especially appreciated Jane’s “spirited and complex characters, her wit, and her passion for moderation.. She adds:
“So many of our narratives about women in history revolve around them being the first to do one thing or another. In this book, I wanted to tell a different kind of story - one centered on Jane’s genius. Where did it come from? And more broadly, how do artists learn and grow over time? I wanted children to see that genius is the product of experimentation, persistence, and life’s hard-won battles.”
She definitely accomplished that goal with this book for children aged 5 and over, imparting the important message that if success is elusive, don’t despair - be patient and you may yet reach your goals. Jane’s talent wasn’t immediately apparent, but took a lot of work and a willingness to buck convention.
Evaluation: Even kids who aren't [yet] familiar with Jane Austen will enjoy this story and its depiction through both words and pictures of Regency England. Moreover, the message that success is not always immediate will inspire and encourage children who fear they may never excel.
February 11, 2022
This book stands out from other picture book biographies because it shows that Jane Austen did not just whip out her books. Rather, her talent lingered over many years and it wasn't until she'd experienced life's hardships that she truly found her voice, writing the famous novels we love still today.
I think it's a great message for kids (and adults!) to realize that accomplishment is "the produce of experimentation, persistence, and life's hard-won battles." The writing endears Austen to us from the start and we root for Austen to find a place where she can write and also keep kindling the desire to do so.
This book will appeal to writers, aspiring writers, Jane Austen fans, and anyone looking for an uplifting nonfiction picture book that will inspire kids to keep after what they love to do.
I think it's a great message for kids (and adults!) to realize that accomplishment is "the produce of experimentation, persistence, and life's hard-won battles." The writing endears Austen to us from the start and we root for Austen to find a place where she can write and also keep kindling the desire to do so.
This book will appeal to writers, aspiring writers, Jane Austen fans, and anyone looking for an uplifting nonfiction picture book that will inspire kids to keep after what they love to do.
Read
January 12, 2021A great picture book for young and old fans of Jane Austen, and inspiring for all those who wish to be writers. Plus the beautiful art!
April 6, 2021
This is a beautiful picture book about an extraordinary girl who became one of the most popular writers of time.
It was engaging and entertaining. A great book to teach kids about Jane Austen and to inspire them to also live their passions. A must have for all Jane Austen fans.
It was engaging and entertaining. A great book to teach kids about Jane Austen and to inspire them to also live their passions. A must have for all Jane Austen fans.
April 6, 2021
Well written (I enjoyed the quotes from Austen's works) and beautifully illustrated!
August 6, 2021
I love everything about this! The illustrations are beautiful, the colors changing as Jane grows. I learned a lot while enjoying a good story!
September 1, 2021
What a beautiful child's biography of Jane Austen! The illustrations are lovely, and the prose is very accessible to young readers. I was impressed with this simple biography.
December 26, 2021
This is one of the best children's books about Jane Austen I have read. I thought it covered areas that other books haven't. The illustrations by Vesper Stamper are so perfect for this story.
January 19, 2022
The illustrations are delightful and just the right amount of information for kids.
Read
March 1, 2022Eh, this was nice, but when it comes to the way it's written, I worry that you'd lose a lot of kids.
March 31, 2022
Needing a moment to myself, I sat down with a lavender white mocha and thoroughly enjoyed this book. The text, the illustrations stirred an appreciation for Jane Austen, but also for women who fight to find their voices and tell their stories. Highly recommend.
Read
August 4, 20248/1/2024 * 4 stars
Cute kids book about Jane Austen.
Cute kids book about Jane Austen.
June 8, 2022
3.5 stars.
I like the illustration style quite a bit. It's very pretty, and I love the detail put into it. For the most part it's very colourful, but changes to reflect what's going on in the text.
The text is interesting, if not very in-depth (it is a kids' book). One interesting touch was the author using quotes from Austen's writing in the text. I found the information in the back of the book interesting, as well.
I like the illustration style quite a bit. It's very pretty, and I love the detail put into it. For the most part it's very colourful, but changes to reflect what's going on in the text.
The text is interesting, if not very in-depth (it is a kids' book). One interesting touch was the author using quotes from Austen's writing in the text. I found the information in the back of the book interesting, as well.
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