Encounters with Jane Austen: Celebrating 250 Years.

About Encounters with Jane Austen

Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of the literary legend, this anthology features a vibrant mix of short stories, essays, interviews and poetry contributed by over 30 writers and artists. It presents a delightful blend of both contemporary and classic works, accompanied by humorous illustrations and timeless quotes from Jane Austen herself.

With an introductory overview of Austen’s life and work by author and academic Professor Jennie Batchelor, this volume also showcases notable contributors such as Bridgerton author Julia Quinn, actor and writer Talulah Riley, bestselling author Charlie Lovett, and two Pulitzer Prize-winning poets, Edna St Vincent Millay and Sara Teasdale.

Includes an exclusive interview with Martin Jennings about the making of the new bronze sculpture of Jane Austen which will be unveiled on October 16th at Winchester Cathedral.

Reviews:

“…A veritable smorgasbord for fans of Austen, as artists, poets, and writers come together to explore why, at 250, Jane is still inspiring, enthralling and infuriating us.”– Helena Kelly, author The Worlds of Jane Austen

“Encounters with Jane Austen is a delightful compendium of reactions—or perhaps we should call them love notes–from many creative writers and other thoughtful interpreters who share their appreciation for Austen. Reading Encounters is like discussing Austen with your best friends if your friends group were to include the likes of Julia Quinn and Natalie Jenner among many other talented authors. Insightful, yet “light and bright and sparkling,” this book offers a wonderful way to celebrate the many facets of Austen’s genius and to enjoy an excellent introduction to her life and impact prepared by scholar Jennie Batchelor.” – Mary Mintz, Associate Librarian Emerita, American University

“For us, in the twenty-first century, there’s so much to entertain in this carefully curated collection. It contains poetry, short stories, essays, and interviews with creators and thinkers – and indeed, with Jane herself! Savour in sections, or gobble it up in one sitting as we celebrate 250 years of Austen’s life, her writing, and her enduring legacy.” – Dr Gillian Dow, Uses of Austen: Jane’s Afterlives

“Fizzing with originality and creative energy, each contributor reveals their own deeply personal encounter with Austen’s work, finding new relevance and importance in the great novelist en route.” – Hannah Grieg, historian, author and film consultant.

This is a really interesting collection for anyone who loves Austen’s work. It’s both a fascinating exploration of what makes her so beloved as an author, but also why her novels, written more than 200 years ago, remain relevant and popular with readers of all ages to this day.

“From the classic film adaptations to modern takes like ‘Clueless’, a reimagining of ‘Emma’, Jane Austen continues to be part of pop culture, appealing to a wide range of audiences for a great number of reasons. What makes this anthology especially engaging is the variety of voices it includes. Collecting art, interviews, essays, and poems from different writers and artists, each reflecting on their interpretation of Austen’s work and how it has inspired them. This book offers an intriguing way to revisit her novels, and perhaps even to approach them from a new angle, understanding a little better what makes them timeless.” 5* – Anna H, netgalley reviewer