Reason v. Romance: Jane Austen’s SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

Sense and Sensibility is not Jane Austen’s signal work, but it is her first published novel. This beloved tale of sisters trying to find love and preserve their family’s legacy was originally published anonymously, with the first of its three volumes credited to “A Lady.” The novel, like all of Austen’s works, is a whole lot more than a love story. It’s rife with social commentary, and a masterclass in “show, don’t tell.” Whether you’ve read the book or not, you might be familiar with Ang Lee’s 1995 film adaptation. It has a special place in many an Austenite’s heart, with a stacked cast that includes Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, and Kate Winslet. After much fanfare, Georgia Oakley’s take starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles will finally hit US theaters this month, but it’s been out for a few weeks in the UK. The reviews thus far are a mixed bag: the film’s moody, earthy vibe is really doing it for some viewers, but it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Decide for yourself when the film releases on October 16, and brush up on the text with Jeff and Rebecca on this week’s episode of Zero to Well-Read. Book Deals Sign up for our Book Deals newsletter and get up to 80...