Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen [adult fiction]
by Christine, age 16
Few classic books have engaged me as much as Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen’s brilliance is truly evident in this, her most famous and most incredible work. I first read this book in seventh grade and enjoyed it so much that I’ve re-read it several times since.
The novel is about a young woman named Elizabeth Bennet and her sister Jane. Together they cope with the trials and tribulations of dealing with their obnoxious mother, trying to knock some sense into their improper younger sisters, and most importantly–trying to find love.
When Mr. Bingley comes to town, bringing his sister and his best friend, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley is well-received as a rich, friendly young man who would most likely marry one of the eligible young women of the town. Mr. Darcy is perceived as an arrogant, prideful person who deeply insulted Elizabeth at their first meeting.
As the novel progresses, we become aware that Mr. Darcy’s attitude towards Elizabeth is beginning to change. Mr. Darcy remarks that, “It has been some time now since I considered her to be one of the handsomest young women of my acquaintance.”
Then, Mr. Darcy proposes marriage. He tells Elizabeth that she has no money, no connections, and indeed nothing to recommend her to a good marriage. Despite his approach, he expects to be accepted. Instead, Elizabeth promptly turns him down flat. Her beliefs about Darcy have been influenced by the suave and ever-charming Wickham, who has told Elizabeth that Mr. Darcy played an integral part in preventing Wickham from receiving his inheritance.
Is it true? Is Mr. Darcy the prideful, arrogant man Elizabeth thinks he is? Perhaps…or perhaps not. I highly recommend you read this wonderful book — and discover the truth about Mr. Darcy.
Gossip Girl, by Cecily von Ziegesar [YA Fiction]
The Fire Within, by Chris D’Lacey [J Fiction]
I, Robot, by Isaac Asimov [YA Fiction]
Time Enough for Drums, by Ann Rinaldi [YA Fiction]
