Every devoted reader feels that, in some way, they know Jane Austen. But how can we make sense of her extraordinary achievements? At a time when most women rece

"This book presents Jane Austen's life and works in a beautifully illustrated volume, taking a thematic, all-encompassing look at this most brilliant of writers

Lively and engaging account of the experience of reading Jane Austen, by leading scholar and novelist.

The author sifts through evidence that depicts Austen not as a modest, retiring daughter, but rather as a rebellious, satirical, and wild woman. -- Back cover.