Most of the books I read this summer were just OK. There were a few that were interesting, or had good descriptions, but nothing that set me back on my heels. When I read one that made me laugh out loud the whole way through it, I had to mention it here.

A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, Curtis Sittenfeld’s Eligible is sharp and funny, and comfortingly familiar. I read most of Austen’s work as a teen, and reread most of her work as an adult (Maybe I’m not the only person who heard of Sanditon for the first time when the Masterpiece series came out, forcing me to add “most” when I say I’ve read Austen’s work, and making me question whether or not I’m a true fan?). I’m fairly sure that I’ve seen every movie and TV adaptation of her books.

To read a retelling of one of Austen’s best known works was a real pleasure. Sittenfeld does an incredible job of bringing the story into modern times while maintaining the sharp social commentary Austen was known for. Somehow Sittenfeld is able to gracefully draw in many current social issues, using, as Austen does, the characters to indict themselves, or instead, to shine in the light of their own goodness.Even though it’s set in the 2000’s, the book made me want to get working on a Regency costume, so when the opportunity presents itself, I can go hang out with other Austen fans in costume at one of their many get-togethers. Given that I’m still working (very slowly) on several other costume projects, it might be a while before I’m reading to tackle that, though.

Reading Eligible also made me want to reread Austen’s canon again, as well as read more of Sittenfeld’s work. That’s a pretty powerful impact for one book.