Margaret C. Sullivan

The sole reason I picked this up was for a challenge where I needed to read a "regency" related book. I tried a pure history book, and while I finish almost every book I start, I just couldn't make myself.

This light, short book seemed like just the ticket. The frame is that the reader is an aspiring social climber during the Regency times, and this book advises her on attire, etiquette, love, etc. It's cute and sometimes witty. But often, the author breaks the premise and references modern times. At the end of the book is a mini bio of Jane Austen as well as a bibliography of her books with descriptions.

I am sure Jane Austen fans might like this one, though it is a bit superficial. I liked learning some of the period aspects that I didn't know, but I feel like someone who is really immersed in the regency era would find it trite.

… (más)

Jane Austen published her first novel in 1811, but today she's more popular than ever. Film adaptations of her books are nominated for Academy Awards. Chick lit bestsellers are based on her plots. And a new biopic of Austen herself Becoming Jane arrives in theaters this spring.
For all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing

Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living.… (más)

I've been lusting after this book for a few months now and it finally arrived today. Nothing else got done as I promptly flopped onto the couch and dove it.

There's more to this book than I originally expected, with thoughtful and sometimes downright snarky commentary about each cover. The quality of the covers in each time period range from tasteful to tasteless to downright tacky and all a lot of fun to look at.

If you are a Jane Austen fan, this one is a keeper, although now I want to go out and search for some of these old editions (the original Peacock edition: yes please!).… (más)