Book Review: Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Sense and Sensibility 

By Jane Austen

Release Date: 1811

Source: Barnes and Noble

Summary: Marianne Dashwood wears her heart on her sleeve, and when she falls in love with the dashing but unsuitable John Willoughby she ignores her sister Elinor's warning that her impulsive behaviour leaves her open to gossip and innuendo. Meanwhile Elinor, always sensitive to social convention, is struggling to conceal her own romantic disappointment, even from those closest to her. Through their parallel experience of love - and its threatened loss - the sisters learn that sense must mix with sensibility if they are to find personal happiness in a society where status and money govern the rules of love.

Review: This is the second time I've read this book, but the first time reading it for fun (the other time I read it for a class and had to write a paper about it). That being said, I think this book was even more enjoyable the second time around. I just can't go wrong with Jane Austen!

Marianne Dashwood is definitely more emotional than her sister Elinor, so when she meets the dashing John Willoughby, it's no surprise she falls head over heels for her handsome savior. While it's no secret who Marianne has fallen for, Elinor hides her true feelings for Edward Ferrars, a more reserved man who's perfect for Elinor's sensible character. However, when Elinor learns a secret about Edward that crushes her, she hides her emotions as Marianne becomes an emotional mess when her own relationship goes south. Can either sister find happiness when it comes to romance, or will they be perpetually longing for more? 

Like I said, I really loved this book. Elinor and Marianne approach romance so differently, so it's interesting to watch how each of their stories unfold. While there were times I wanted to strangle Marianne for being such an emotional wreck over a guy that I didn't particularly like, her emotions are what made her so charming. 

Now onto the men. While Edward is far from the kind of man who can sweep a girl off of her feet, his awkwardness is so adorable and I love how his relationship with Elinor is definitely not a perfect one. Yeah, he was kind of an idiot at certain parts of the novel, but his imperfections are what made him so perfect. Colonial Brandon was quite a character too. I don't know how a guy could be so patient and doting of a girl who shows exactly zero interest in him. But he's persistent and isn't one to give up, which makes it impossible not to like him. 

In the end, Jane Austen delivers another romance that will sweep you off your feet. And it's a book you can read over and over again and never get tired of. The characters are real and, like any true Austen novel, have to go through many trials until their romances come true. If you're looking for a classic to read, you'd better pick up Sense and Sensibility. Austen won't let you down!