Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 6 Up-This book for the avid Austen fan presents information on the author's work in the context of her own life. The book examines the relationships between Austen's personal experiences and her profession, covering the author's early life and works and the places and people that influenced her. Chapters include "Loves," "The Professional Author" (where readers will find information on Austen's fellow women writers), and "War and Peace" (a look at the influence of ongoing British wars). There are also sections on specific examples of Austen's writings interspersed throughout. Fold-out envelopes contain copies of original documents, including Austen's own writings, maps, and other ephemera. Each section is enhanced by drawings, paintings, and photos, some done by Austen's own family, that illuminate significant aspects of her life. The information is interesting and thorough, although the volume's size and format may appeal more to pleasure readers than researchers. The references to movies based on Austen's writing add to the fan appeal. A lovely title that may not satisfy research demands but that will please readers who love her books.-Marian McLeod, Convent of the Sacred Heart, Greenwich, CT (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
