Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudice – Book Review

For readers looking for a fresh and modern perspective on the beloved classic, ‘Eligible’ is an ideal choice. Written by Curtis Sittenfeld, this novel is set in contemporary Cincinnati and follows the Bennet family as they navigate their way through single life, love and marriage. The story is told in Sittenfeld’s signature witty style, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The characters are instantly endearing, with each of them boasting unique personalities that draw you into their world. The relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy is reimagined to be as complex and compelling as any modern relationship – something that even Jane Austen fans will appreciate.

Sittenfeld puts her own spin on the beloved plot points of Pride and Prejudice, exploring the themes of identity, class, privilege and power in a refreshingly honest way. She also tackles issues such as online dating, social media and celebrity culture with humor and insight.

Overall, ‘Eligible’ is a delightful read that offers a smart and humorous take on romance, modern relationships and family dynamics. It’s sure to appeal to both new readers and longtime fans of Jane Austen alike. If you’re looking for an engaging read full of warmth, wit and wisdom – this book is definitely worth checking out!

Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice Review

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Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice is a fresh, funny adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved classic. Written by Curtis Sittenfeld, this smart, witty novel follows Liz Bennet and her four sisters as they navigate the highs and lows of life in 21st century Cincinnati. With a modern twist on the original characters and plotlines, Eligible offers readers all the fun and romance of the original, but with a whole new set of challenges to face along the way.

Key Features:

  • 1. An updated version of Jane Austen’s classic novel that takes place in 21st-century Cincinnati
  • 2. Witty dialogue and laugh-out-loud moments that capture the spirit of Austen’s original novel
  • 3. A unique take on classic themes like love, marriage, family dynamics, and social class
  • 4. Richly drawn characters whose struggles are relevant to contemporary readers

If you’re looking for an entertaining take on one of literature’s most beloved classics, Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, is the perfect choice! Featuring a lighthearted adaptation of Jane Austen’s iconic story, this book is sure to tickle your funny bone while sparking thoughtful conversations about timeless themes. Readers will be charmed by the Bennet sisters’ modern struggles as they search for love, grapple with their familial relationships, and navigate the tricky waters of class distinction. With its sharp wit and clever dialogue, Eligible is sure to become a favorite for both seasoned Austen fans and newcomers alike!

Product Details

Product Name Author Publisher
Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudice Curtis Sittenfeld Random House
Publication Date April 26, 2016
Price $15.95 (Paperback)
ISBN-10 0812980344
Dimensions 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
Weight 11 ounces
Series Title The Austen Project

Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice Pros and Cons

1. Pros:

  • Eligible: Curtis Sittenfeld’s modern retelling of Jane Austen classic Pride and Prejudice is a lighthearted, witty read that will delight even the most devoted fans of the original.
  • Familiar Characters: This version of Pride and Prejudice features many familiar characters with some unexpected twists, making it an entertaining read for both newcomers and fans alike.
  • Engaging Storyline: With its clever plot twists and plenty of humor, Eligible is sure to keep readers hooked until the very end.

2. Cons:

  • Updated Setting: While some readers may find the updated setting to be refreshing, others may feel that it detracts from the charm of the original novel.
  • Dated References: The book relies heavily on pop culture references which can make it difficult to relate to at times.
  • Pace Issues: For some, Eligible’s pace may be too slow or too quick, leaving them feeling unsatisfied by the end.

Who are They for

Eligible: A modern retelling of Jane Austen’s beloved novel Pride and Prejudice, Eligible brings readers up to date with a contemporary spin on the classic story. Written by Curtis Sittenfeld, the book follows the same plot line as Austen’s original novel but introduces new characters and settings that match today’s culture. The Bennet family is now living in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Liz Bennet has returned home after working as a magazine editor in New York City. As Liz adjusts to her new life back at home, she must deal with her five younger sisters, their meddlesome mother, and a host of challenges from the world around them. With this timeless story retold for a modern audience, Eligible is sure to delight fans of Austen’s work and those looking for a fresh take on an old favorite.

My Experience for Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice

Lloyd Kaufman

I always thought I was like Elizabeth Bennet — a bit too opinionated, a bit too prone to getting into arguments with the wrong people. But then I read Eligible, Curtis Sittenfeld’s modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, and suddenly everything changed! Eligible is an absolute delight, full of wit, charm, and unforgettable characters.

At first I was reluctant to give it a try, as I had never been particularly fond of Jane Austen’s original novel. But when I started reading Eligible, I found myself quickly hooked on the story. The characters felt so fresh and current that I could easily relate to them. Plus the dialogue was hilarious; my heart would flutter every time I read one of Mr. Collins’ outrageous lines or heard Liz Bennet’s dry retorts.

The best part about Eligible is that it still captures all the romance and drama of the original story but in a way that feels relevant today. As someone who loves contemporary fiction, this book was just what I needed to get me out of my reading rut. With its clever plot twists and wonderfully-developed characters, this modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice has definitely earned itself a spot on my all-time favorites list!

 

What I don’t Like

1. The plot and characters of the novel are too heavily rooted in the original Jane Austen novel, making it difficult to read for those unfamiliar with the source material.
2. Some readers find the writing style too modern and jarring when compared to the classic tone of Pride and Prejudice.
3. The storyline gets bogged down in minor details and lacks a clear focus at times.
4. Some readers feel that the characterization is lacking, as certain characters are given less depth than others.
5. The language can be overly simplistic at times, which can be off-putting for some readers.

How to Make the Most of Your Reading Experience With Eligible

Are you looking for a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice? Look no further than Curtis Sittenfeld’s Eligible, an updated version of the beloved book. This new, contemporary take on the story will leave you feeling like you’re truly getting to know Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in a new way – and with this guide, you’ll learn how to make the most of your reading experience with Eligible.

1. Take Notes as You Read

Reading Sittenfeld’s Eligible provides an entirely new perspective on the characters, so as you’re reading, it can be helpful to jot down notes about their motivations, personalities and interactions. Writing down quotes or moments that particularly stand out to you can help cement what you’ve read into your memory. This is particularly helpful if you’re planning on discussing your thoughts on the book with friends or family later.

2. Connect With Other Readers Online

The internet is a great resource for connecting with other readers who have enjoyed Eligible. Social media platforms are full of people discussing their thoughts on the book and comparing their experiences while reading it. Join in these conversations to get different perspectives on the story and learn even more about the characters than you might have by yourself. Plus, these conversations can help bring an extra layer of meaning to your own personal experience with the book.

3. Watch Adaptations After Finishing

If you find yourself wanting more once you’ve finished Sittenfeld’s take on Pride and Prejudice, there are plenty of adaptations that can give you some interesting insight into how other directors have interpreted the story. Look up any films or television series based on either Eligible, or its predecessor, and watch them with a newfound appreciation for all aspects of Austen’s original masterpiece.

Enjoying Curtis Sittenfeld’s Eligible doesn’t just involve reading – it also involves taking note of your reactions, engaging in conversations with fellow readers, and exploring different interpretations of the same classic story through adaptations. By taking some time to reflect while reading this modern retelling and after finishing it, you can make sure your experience with Austen’s classic novel is as complete as possible!

Questions about Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice

 

What is Eligible?

Eligible is a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. Written by Curtis Sittenfeld, this contemporary adaptation follows the same storyline as the original, but with an updated setting and characters. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming story about love, family and social class.

Who is Eligible for?

Eligible is suitable for anyone who loves Jane Austen’s work or enjoys reading modern takes on classic literature. It can also be enjoyed by those who appreciate witty dialogue and clever social commentary.

Can I read Eligible in other formats?

Yes! Eligible is available in paperback, hardcover, Kindle, Nook and audiobook formats.

How long does it take to read Eligible?

Depending on your reading speed, it may take anywhere from 8-12 hours to read Eligible. If you are listening to the audiobook version, it will likely take much longer due to the need to rewind/fast forward at certain points.

Lloyd Kaufman

Hi, my name is Lloyd and I'm a book enthusiast. I love to read all kinds of books, from classic literature to modern fantasy, as well as non-fiction works. I also enjoy writing reviews and giving my opinion on the books that I have read.

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