Have you ever wondered what it would be like to the heroine in a Jane Austen novel?
Do you see yourself as intelligent and independent Elizabeth Bennett, or perhaps romantic Marianne Dashwood?
Or maybe you don’t see the point in reading Austen’s work; you’d rather immerse yourself in the story of a modern heroine whose life is relevant to your own?
Then you might be interested in Letters from Austen, a new project from my blogger friend Xandra, who writes about becoming a modern heroine using inspiration from her favourite literary works, whether that’s Pride and Prejudice or Harry Potter.
Letters from Austen is a fun way of deepening your understanding of Austen’s novels. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive an email letter each week that will guide you through the novels and access to a Facebook group.
Since finishing my English degree (more years ago than I care to admit) I’ve always missed the intensity of studying a novel and delving into its hidden meanings, of sitting in a seminar and discussing the book with a group. This is especially true of classic novels, which I often feel benefit from closer and more careful attention.
I sampled Xandra’s letters alongside my reading of Northanger Abbey – a book I’ve never read before – and her thoughts certainly helped me to place some of the characters and their relationships, and each letter gave me something new to consider as I worked my way through the novel.
If the idea intrigues you, check out Heroine Training to find out more.
Thank you to Xandra for sharing a complimentary copy of her Northanger Abbey letters with me. All opinions, as always, are my own.
Gemma says
What a wonderful idea. I will be looking into Xandra’s work immediately!!
Gemma
http://www.fadedwindmills.com
Amy Lord says
That’s great, Gemma, hope you enjoy it!
Xandra ★ says
eeee! So glad you enjoyed it – and that I was able to introduce you to one of my favourite novels 🙂 Thanks so much for your thoughtful words 🙂
Sara Strauss says
This is a fantastic idea!! I love this! Definitely checking this out!
~Sara