Changes

I've been an ardent fan of Jane Austen's for many years so it was with eagerness that I sat down to read this reworking of ''Sense and Sensibility'' and in the main , I was not disappointed. Schine effortlessly reworks the basics of Austen's story, setting it in modern Connecticut, with Miranda and Annie as the Dashwood sisters Marianne and Elinor, although in this novel they are considerably older and more experienced in life. The Dashwoods' hard times, so key to Austen's book, are also easily echoed as Betty has no money of her own despite her 48 -year marriage. I was surprised that Miranda and Annie were not more self-sufficient in these modern times, but both are plagued by financial constraints too and so the three are left somewhat impoverished.

In essence , there is a certain lack of plot to this novel, nothing very exciting or groundbreaking happens and movement is slow for the first half, but for me , this was no bad thing and I actually found it quite refreshing. Instead , Schine uses her characters to move the story forwards, which lends an air of unpredictability, and her confidence as a writer shines through as she reveals some quirky twists on Austen's tale. As a result, Schine's writing and use of language stands stand out with its elegance and subtlety, and diverts us with the highly amusing scenes involving Cousin Lou's family and colourful friends. These scenes are a gentle nod towards the eccentric characters in Austen's book and certainly gave me cause for a wry smile, as Schine has a very dry sense of humour and her observations of human nature are spot on. In particular , watch out for Mr Shpuntov.

Further Reading Suggestion: If you like the sound of this book, you may also enjoy [[Lovers and Newcomers by Rosie Thomas]]. We think you'll also enjoy [[Fin and Lady by Cathleen Schine]].