Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen: The Story of Six Novels, Three Notebooks, a Writing Box, and One Clever Girl

Writing in a warm-humored, matter-of-fact tone, Hopkinson traces Jane Austen's path from a curious and shy childhood into a quiet adulthood as a practiced and determined author. Hopkinson clearly emphasizes how Austen's work was, in many respects, revolutionary, despite the "simple life" she led: "Jane went her own way, inventing a new kind of story about real people, and sisters (like Cassandra and herself), who longed to follow their dreams." Leng's watercolors combine light, blushing shades of color with delicate ink outlines, bringing a fitting lightness to the story of a writer who wanted readers to "recognize (and laugh at) themselves" in her books. It's a charming account of pride and persistence that concludes by wondering "if Jane would be surprised to learn that her books are still read and loved by people all over the world? Maybe. Then again, maybe not." Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. Illustrator's agency: Shannon Associates. (Jan.)

K-Gr 2—Born at the turn of the 19th century, Jane Austen is now considered one of the world's greatest writers, but she grew up simply. In a house filled with boys and books, she was encouraged in her writing by her father who ran a boarding school. Hopkinson begins her appealing introduction to this beloved writer using a familiar Austen phrase "It is a truth universally acknowledged..." Most of Hopkinson's short, straightforward text focuses on the writer's childhood: her shy habit of observation; family life with her sister and many brothers; her enjoyment of family theatrical productions, reading, and writing; and her father's support. The final pages introduce her adult work, her new way of storytelling: "to hold up a mirror to the ordinary world so readers could recognize (and laugh at) themselves." Hopkinson makes clear the different expectations for men and women at the time, and points out that the four novels published in Austen's lifetime were credited to an unnamed "lady." Gentle ink and watercolor illustrations perfectly reflect the tone and understated humor of Austen's writing. Ranging from vignettes to spreads, Leng's art will help readers picture the time and place while focusing on domestic interiors, happy family occasions, and Austen at work. The back matter includes a time line and description of six novels. VERDICT Gentle, charming, and informative, this welcome addition to any library should plant a seed for later enjoyment of Austen's work.—Kathleen Isaacs, Children's Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD