Overbooked -- April 3, 2023

 The Overbooked bunch underwent a challenging read this month as we met to discuss the beloved classic, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Originally published in 1813, the novel follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet as she learns to see past her initial prejudices and misjudgments of the people around her, especially in regards to the handsomely brooding Mr. Darcy. Written as a novel of manners which recreates the intricate customs and social norms of the time, Austen employed the use of irony, humor and social commentary to poke fun at the idea of a woman's dependence on marriage as well as the classism of the time, both of which are still relevant topics to this day.

The biggest hurdle for all members was the style of writing and dialogue. Several members found this to be the most daunting aspect of the book, but were glad to have stuck through it as the experience gave them a better understanding as to why the book is so well loved and considered a classic. The universal themes help to make the book relevant to this day. Others were genuinely surprised by how much they ended up enjoying the book and couldn't put it down. However, the roundabout manner in which characters often spoke could get frustrating at times, and readers wished they would just say what they meant. 

In the end, the book was very well received despite the initial reservations the group had tackling this classic. Members awarded the novel a 4.1 average rating. 

Final Rating: 4.1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = It was amazing

⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Really liked it

⭐⭐⭐ = Liked it

⭐⭐ = It was ok

⭐ = Did not like it