Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Staff Review by Dawn Stanton:
Calling all Jane Austen fans!
In vain we have struggled. We have struggled to find other books to match our love for Pride and Prejudice. You will be able to keep your good opinion of Longbourn by Jo Baker – a story that focuses on the servants employed in the Bennet household. The plot is strong enough to stand on its own yet also mixes in pertinent details from Pride and Prejudice to give insatiable Austen fans more of what they crave.
The narrative gives an up-close look at the employees who make it all happen for the ladies and gentlemen of late 18th century England. The reader is drawn into the world of the tireless folks who make the necessary preparations that enable the Bennet family to entertain guests, attend balls and live comfortable lives, all without having to lift a finger themselves. It is a demanding life to be a servant during this time frame, with rarely a moment for pause. Longbourn makes it clear that just because one is a servant doesn’t mean they don’t also long for love and happiness. Jo Baker weaves an interesting narrative for the back stories for these servants and intrigues the reader with the current characters.
Fellow Jane Austen fans, do not let your feelings be repressed! Let yourself ardently admire Longbourn.
If you’re interested in this book, there is a library in your neighborhood where you can find it. Your public library is a source of immediate gratification. Take a walk to your local branch and discover a vital resource that is there for the taking. Whether it’s current events, a visit to our downtown cafe called fables, something for the kids, or even booking a librarian, we’re not just books anymore! Your free Buffalo & Erie County Public Library card is your ticket to millions of free resources – e-books, downloadable music, research databases, genealogical materials, our complete catalog, and of course, more than 3 million book titles. All of this is at your fingertips at any Library in Erie County or from your own computer – check us out at www.buffalolib.org.