Jane Austen To The Rescue!

During this lockdown( for those of you, who will read the blog later, I was talking about the COVID 19 phase), it is important to stay happy and mentally fit. Since we are all stuck at our homes, let's make the most of it and inculcate reading as a part of our daily lives.

Let me introduce you to the best books by Jane Austen, that you can read now. The aim is to put a smile on all your faces. Nothing too somber at this point.

1. Pride and Prejudice- What happens when the feisty Elizabeth Bennet and the prideful Mr. Darcy meet, fireworks happen. Two characters, who share a strong dislike, for each other. Two characters, who are passionately attracted to each other. Sounds confusing? Go ahead and read this delightful book and prepared to be soaked in love. Besides the absolutely mesmerizing romance between Mr. Darcy and Miss Bennet, the book has other delightful characters. Be it the pompous Mr. Collins, the hyperventilating Mrs. Bennet, the vain Lady Catherine de Borough, the confused Mr. Bingley, or the gentle Miss Jane Bennet. The story remains refreshing, even 200 years post its initial publication. You won't be disappointed.

2. Emma- In this romantic comedy, the titular protagonist keeps meddling in the love lives of others and leads to severe complications for all. Emma takes a young naive Harriet under her wings and trains her to attract Mr. Elton, the local vicar. However, in a hilarious turn of events, Mr. Elton falls for Emma herself. Further confusion is created as characters like Frank, Jane, and Mr. Knightley get entangled in this mess. Emma loses her heart to Mr. Knightley, just as Harriet does the same after her rejection from Mr. Elton. This hilarious book shows how Emma finally grows up and accepts that she cannot play matchmaker all the time. The book has several sweet moments that make readers smile.

3. Sense and Sensibility- Two sisters, two different love stories. One is driven by passion and the other by gentle feelings. What happens when their partners leave them and disappear? How do they cope? It sounds tad melancholic, but it is a beautiful story of love. Eleanor and Marianne Dashwood lose their home, fall on hard times, fall in love, and suffer heartbreaks. However, they both finally gain the respect and love that they deserve through two wonderful men, Edward and Colonel Brandon. A must-read to feel hopeful and happy, in pessimistic times.

4. Persuasion- Anne Elliot and Commander Frederick Wentworth break their engagement when Anne is persuaded by her family members that the match is not appropriate. Wentworth leaves heartbroken but comes back years later, with a grand fortune. Anne, on the other hand, has fallen on hard times from a life of grandeur. Can old feelings be rekindled? Can two hearts be mended again? Can persuasion work? One of Austen's lesser-known works, this book is a hidden gem of sorts. Read it, to understand how love stands the test of time and separation.

So, these are my top 4 recommendations. Go ahead and read them. Online pdf versions are easily available, if you cant get your hands on the hard copies. Happy reading :) and thanks, Miss Austen.