What a great topic to begin our BEA Book BLogging Week ~
One of my fave [among many!] classic authors?
Jane Austen
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I know, I've heard the negatives of those who 'can't get into her writing',
but perhaps there are ways to overcome the issues?
I would suggest starting your exploration with an audio version for, perhaps, an intermediate level.
This way you'll have the pleasure of someone reading you a story that allows you to
relax and receive rather than giving yourself in a struggle to understand.
Penguin Reader service has published a great series of abridged Jane's books complete with cd
that make a great intro to her writing and storytelling.
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The next recommendation I would make is to choose an annotated version of the book of choice.
Having the unknowns in the story explained via notes included alongside is a great option to overcome any reading hesitancy. What does this mean? or I wonder what this is?
are now understood and you're the richer for the reading experience.
Jane's insights into and examples of human nature, both good and evil, are not to be missed.
Then once you've grown to appreciate these introductions
you'll be hunting down your own copies of the titles.
All of the above are available via your public library making it a painless way to begin
your exploration.
There are countless blogs furthering love of Jane Austen, another source of info and connection.
And blog reading events like Austen in August and Jane Austen reading groups on Goodreads and at Indie Jane for examples you can check into.
When you're ready to begin your own collection, you might want to visit your local charity or thrift store. Beside saving yourself a lot of cash you'll be supporting a good work in your own neighbourhood.
I'll look forward to hearing from you on your new reading adventure
and sharing the Joys of Reading Jane !
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A few other personal fave classics?
CS Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia
LM Montgomery's Rainbow Valley and Anne of Green Gables series
George MacDonald's At the Back of the North Wind, The Marquis' Secret +++
Yours?
