Karen Joy Fowler
The Jane Austen Book Club (2004)
Author: Karen Joy Fowler
Genre: Literary
Plot Summary:
Five women and one man meet monthly to discuss one of Jane Austen's
novels. Members include: recently separated Sylvia; her opinionated
lesbian daughter Allegra; single and nurturing dog breeder Jocelyn; high
school French teacher Prudie, who is becoming somewhat restless with her
marriage; garrulous Bernadette, who has decided to "let herself go;" and
the only male Grigg, whose presence (and taste for science fiction) is met
with suspicion and mild contempt. In between present day discussions and
events, the reader is given a glimpse into each members' lives.
Geographical Setting: California
Time Period: Present (2004)
Appeal Characteristics:
For the Austen lover, it will be fun to notice the references and
parallels between Austen's plots and characters. But for those unfamiliar
with Austen, the book still has plenty of sly wit and hidden depths beyond
its fluffy premise to keep the uninitiated engaged. Of course the book
will make the reader want to pick up and read or reread all of Austen's
works. There are also references and discussions about other authors,
literary works, and pop culture. The book also includes summaries of
Austen's novels, quotations regarding Austen and her works; and discussion
questions from the characters that poke fun at discussion questions found
at the end of books.
Similar Authors: Jane Austen (duh) and some readers may want to check out
Ursula Le Guin, as her work is noted in the novel as well
Red Flags: Nothing really
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