The Novel Life of Jane Austen

Austen scholar Barchas (The Lost Books of Jane Austen) and artist Greenberg (Glass Town) refashion the novelist’s biography into a sprightly tale in the mode of one of her classic comedies of manners. Three sections—“Budding Writer,” “Struggling Artist,” and “Published Author”—cover major events in Austen’s life as well as small, colorful moments like a boating party and a trip to the circus. In this real-life version of a Regency romance, the love story is between Jane and her family, particularly her artistic sister Cassandra, who shares Jane’s love of popular literature (“We are great Novel-readers and not ashamed of being so,” Cassandra asserts) and encourages her writing. The rest of the family listens to Jane read her drafts and offers feedback: “Fanny Price is insipid,” says her mother of Mansfield Park’s heroine. “I did however enjoy Mrs. Norris.” Coming from a poor branch of the family, the siblings must strategize to remain in their wealthier relations’ good graces, while Jane struggles to make money from her publications. Greenberg’s playful art has a handcrafted feel reminiscent of embroidery or quilting, appropriate for the period setting. She peppers scenes with choice historical details, labeling the parlor games played at a party and the food on a breakfast table. Austen fans and newcomers alike will find this charming volume handsome, clever, and rich with Regency scholarship. (Apr.)