Secret Favorite Songs Of Our Favorite Demigods

A Riordanverse Playlist

My two greatest obsessions of 2022 have been music and Percy Jackson! What is my latest nerdy project?

(Secret) Favorite Albums!

I decided to out these warrior kids for their secret tracks! (Not necessarily guilty pleasures, but the songs they aren’t exactly proud to call favorites.) What exactly is the best music for monster-hunting?

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Thalia Grace

Artemis provides endless music selections to her hunters! Yes, Thalia is punk. No, she doesn’t choose 3 Doors Down. She absolutely does not hum along to ‘Let Me Be Myself‘ or ‘Runaway‘. How dare you.

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Reyna Avila Ramírez-Arrellano listens to…

Taylor Swift. Fearless. This is her me time. Get out.

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Jason Grace listens to…

The Killers. Hot Fuss. Jason has memorized ‘Somebody Told Me‘. It plays on repeat in his head while he tries to empty his brain of stressful thoughts. There are so many.

(‘Another head aches’, indeed! Sorry, Jason!)

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Frank Zhang listens to…

I Am…Sasha Fierce. Big emotions require Beyoncé! If you ask him, he will just blush and glare. Confidence-building is a process, okay?

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Hazel Levesque

Leo once joked that children of Hades only like Emo music. Percy laughingly suggested “Death Cab For Cutie“. Frank found the music for her and, well, Hazel doesn’t want to admit she loved it.

(Ask Annabeth about an actual death cab – it’s a funny story!)

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Annabeth Chase

Black Eyed Peas (The E.N.D.) songs take up most of Annabeth’s study playlist. Scientifically proven for demigod success!

(A literal party could not stop Annabeth when she’s hyperfocused on an idea.)

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Percy Jackson

A school roommate left behind their Cake CD, ‘Pressure Chief‘, and Percy got to love the weird lyrics and slow-pop melodies.

(But, if Thalia asks, Green Day is The Best and Thalia Rulez!)

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Nico Di Angelo

Nico doesn’t mind angst. But… Make Believe does not sound as angsty as these lyrics may seem! It’s perfect to cry a while or to sit in gloomy silence. (Future Nico probably graduates to ‘The Angel And The One‘. And ‘Hero‘. Feel better, Nico!)

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Will Solace

Will’s secret rebellion is listening to Tokyo Police Club ‘Smith EP’ with his earbuds in while organizing the med bay. TPC is on Apollo’s list of Strictly Not Approved artists.

We support micro-rebellions!

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Piper Mclean

Piper’s guilty pleasure is Britney Spears. She resisted pop music for years. Recently, the ‘Free Britney movement’ led to self-reflection. She decided patriarchy and ableism can suck it, and ‘Blackout‘ is feminist and genius!

***

Artist credit from Rickriordan.com

Leo Valdez

Leo doesn’t really think about music. (Please don’t judge!) He’s been known to listen to his favorite movie soundtracks, like Transformers!

(He’s the one to talk to if you want your music to blast the loudest! Just remember to specify decibel preference.)

***

Can you imagine these kids on the Argo II chilling with headphones on? Or, at Camp Half-Blood or in New Rome? Hope you enjoyed snooping with me! I’m sure the demigods don’t mind… Anyway, we all have secret favorites! What’s yours and why?

Stay warm, stay safe, feel loved this winter!

Another Percy Jackson-themed playlist

• My Comfort Reads
• Dating Robyn the Weird
• This Again, a poem
• Checking In
• Books With Heart

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

What does one do in ‘The Midnight Library’? Nora Seed might be the first person ever to find out.

This morning, I am listening to (loud) music. Weezer’s new album (SZNZ: Autumn). I’m taking a few moments in time to feel deep gratitide for Lucy and Mon, who read ‘The Midnight Library’ with me. What a journey!

Now that we're together
We're gonna sing you a song
Let these steel strings
Take you home to me
And let yourself be soothed
By the sound of drums
Climb down the stairs and 
out the door
'Til your feet are on the earth
- The Sound Of Drums (2022)
Weezer

Content warning: this post references mental health topics, indirectly (suicide) and directly (depression and anxiety). Take care.

Nora Seed

The first thing you need to know about Nora Seed is she studied philosophy. Yeah. I can relate–I’m a deep thinker, too. It can be destructive. Secondly, she is quite lonely. And thirdly, she is creative. She used to write songs and play keyboard in a band. She used to want to write a novel. She used to imagine a lot of things.

Image credit: Chris Coady, inews.co.uk

So, what does Nora do in The Midnight Library?

1. Listen

Nora has been listening, and the signs are telling her the world is better off without her. It’s sad, but she’s accepting it today.

She wakes up from a sad bottle of wine to a metaphysically impossible library, stuck interminably at midnight.

Her childhood librarian (and friend) Mrs. Elm introduces Nora to a curated collection of lives, pretty on display in rows and rows. You can have any of them, she promises. Start with one.

Will Nora listen to these alternate lives? What will she learn from the many paths not taken?

‘There are more possible ways to play a game of chess than the amount of atoms in the observable universe.’ -The Midnight Library

I listen.

I am intrigued by the idea of exploring a different major life choice! What if? What if we chose differently? Took a risk? Moved bravely to another country? Or invested our precious time differently? Studied writing? Learned a language? I’m listening, Matt Haig.

2. Regret

I don’t believe in regret. There’s no editing out the good and bad from the results. This is life. It’s a mess of mistakes and question marks. We’ll never know why some paths fell away. I see the incomparable view from the peak and I regret none of the thorn slashes, aching muscles or uncertainty.

Take a look at where you
started from
And where you are today
You climbed mountains
Swam oceans
You got knocked down
And kept goin'
- A Little Bit Of Love (2022)
Weezer

Nora’s regret

Second-guessing has become Nora Seed’s favorite passtime. What could she have done to not lose her brother’s love? She should have moved to Australia with Izzy as she’d once planned. She should have gone through with her wedding. Should, should, should. Not once does she think, what can I do to change this? And I understand. She forgets how powerful choice can be.

‘Sometimes if we fill that lack with something else the original want disappears entirely. Maybe you have a lack problem rather than a want problem. Maybe there is a life that you really want to live.’ -The Midnight Library

3. Choose

Nora must choose a book from The Library and give it a fair chance. Will it improve on her life? Replace it? Will it replace her with a better version of Nora Seed?

Yeah, I'm gonna be 
somebody else
Be somebody else
The opposite of me
- The Opposite Of Me (2022)
Weezer

I choose.

When I choose a book to read, it’s an opportunity and a sacrifice. Time spent reading is time away from my everyday life. It’s a chance to glean wisdom, I suppose. Or to discover joy that I can then share with others!

4. Be inspired

Nora shares music with newly inspired folks as they buy their first guitar. For those who refresh their passion buying guitar picks and sheet music, she distributes potential joy. It’s just a dull job at a music shop.

When Nora examines her regrets, she notices a theme: abandoned inspiration. Why had she decided not to aim high? Olympic swimming, writing, performing with her band, pursuing glaciology (and saving the earth from global warming)- what had become of all her passion? Could she find it again and follow through?

‘To be part of nature was to be part of the will to live.’ -The Midnight Library

My inspiration.

Music sculpts new structures from my mutable essence. When someone else is vulnerable, talented, genius and generous… sharing in the product overwhelms me with joy. It’s not a job or hobby for me. Actually, it’s bigger than me.

5. Hope

Lately, I find hope in my past because the future seems uncertain. I’m privileged, I know. I get paid to work with people I care about. I live with my favorite person in the world. I’m also living with black ropes constraining my movement. Anxiety. Ropes that say, “can’t, shouldn’t, and what if it hurts?”

Nora’s hope.

Nora has depression. “Everyone has mental health”, she reminds her boss. But she loses her job. That’s when the path forward begins to disintegrate. What is her future? What is she good for? And truly, depression has stolen the answer from her. Her memories have warped so she can’t see how much she has survived and achieved- no, not achieved- offered to the world! The music and friendship, talent and kindness.

Corrosion in the wires 
Makes it hard for me to understand
Part of me is curious, part of me 
is too afraid to ask
- What Happens After You (2022)
Weezer

My Review

In the space between seconds in time, Nora has the unheard of option to change everything. The question is, how will this choice affect Nora’s original self? What is she truly leaving behind in the unemployed, fiancée-less, feline-less, friendless woman, besides regret?

Matt Haig leads readers by the hand through a surreal and existential challenge. Mental health is portrayed without many clinical terms, instead feeling out truth and testing lies. ‘The Midnight Library’ is difficult at times. The constant shift from life to life, reality to reality, breaks life apart to build it up again. It feels breathless and dizzying. It feels revolutionary, as we face Nora’s fears and somehow survive.

My friends and I may be divided across the world, but our book club is a source of joy and inspiration. We are branching out from Jane Austen and other classics, this time to share in surrealism. I’m so grateful to have delved into ‘The Midnight Library’ with my two reading pals.

We often struggle and we suffer because life hurts. Yet we persevere. We have built upon our shared love of reading! What is life for if not to share? Books, music, time, truth – we share it all, because that’s what living is. That is my lesson from ‘The Midnight Library’.

Feeding on the fire
Shattering those iron bars
Through the sky 
like shooting stars
Wild at Heart
You got me wild at heart
- Wild At Heart (2022)
Weezer

If you enjoyed this post, you may also like: Mental Health In Life And Fiction!

• My Comfort Reads
  Coffee and books…these are the fun things in life!
• Dating Robyn the Weird
  I broke up with someone, for the first and only time, at age sixteen. It’s a weird story.
• This Again, a poem
  Are we back to this again / Am I sorry for being weak
• Checking In
  I have some thoughts.
• Books With Heart
  It’s February, so please allow me to review three recent romantic reads for you!

Mid-Year Book Freak Out (2022)

2022 is the year of Percy Jackson! Production has begun for the PJO Disney+ series. The ‘Riordanverse’ is alive with anticipation. But, wait! I promise not to only blog about that! I really, really believe I can talk about other books, too. 😅

*Questions altered from last year’s tag!

Best book you’ve read so far in 2022

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

I found this sweet gem while looking for a funny, honest, relatable story! What could be more relatable to a fangirl like myself than Cath, an anxious young woman with trust issues and an obsession with fictional characters that exceeds all else?

Like a ninja, Cath slips into advanced writing classes. Also like a ninja, she manages to avoid making new friends – especially with her surly college roommate. Oh well, she has thousands of people depending on her to post Simon Snow fan fiction! No doubt Cath’s new peers would judge her for this, as does her twin, Ren. Or, is she also a ninja at hiding from the truth?

Favorite new (to me) author

Rainbow Rowell

How excellent is this? I’m almost wordless. ‘Fangirl’ is a YA novel about transitioning to college and independence. Cath, a creative, anxious introvert, is my new best friend. Rainbow is my new idol! She writes with an adoration for language! She writes worlds within worlds. Super-imposed realities.

I’m expecting to stay in a contemporary YA mood for a few more weeks…maybe months. Library audiobooks FTW! After Fangirl, I’m waiting on Eleanor & Park, then Carry On and the rest of the Simon Snow series! 😆

Newest favorite character

Magnus Chase

Magnus lives life in heightened awareness of dangers to his soft heart. His senses are just different to those of others. He’s deeply empathetic. Once Magnus Chase is your friend you will never feel alone.

This is the first character in the Riordanverse I deeply identify with, surprisingly enough. He’s a blonde male teen, sure, but who cares? Maybe I’m also a child of a Norse god! ☺️

Best sequel you’ve read so far in 2022

The Ship of the Dead (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #3)

Ahhhhh! I keep going back to read favorite moments! So many epic moments are hilarious while also plumbing the depths of emotion. I love everyone. What are side characters? Character growth for everyone!

Too, the worlds never disappoint! Riordan invites us into worlds of Valkyries, Elves, Dwarfs, Giants, and those awkward humans. Don’t forget the pop culture references. Thor is not the Thor of Marvel movies, and is Taylor Swift human or elf?! 😲

Book that made you happy

The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus #2)

Three of a kind, these questers bring me joy! First, there’s Percy. He’s a sassy hero, even when out of his element. Frank Zhang and Hazel Levesque lead the way to Alaska. They are the two softest, squishiest cuties of Camp Jupiter – but powerful enough to impress Percy. Do not underestimate!

Biggest surprise

The Mark Of Athena (Heroes of Olympus #3)

I didn’t realize before how much of this series is written around romantic attachments! It’s clear to me now why the relationships seem stunted. Is any conflict resolved, really? Or am I just told that it is?

Don’t worry, I still love Percabeth. I just wish that the switching between POVs was more purposeful. And can we not with love triangles ever again? 😬

Biggest disappointment

The House Of Hades (Heroes of Olympus #4)

Trauma-driven character development is disappointing. I’ve heard it said that a certain side character’s *traumatic experience* should have been written from their own POV. From another POV, the narrative came across exploitive at worse, pointless at best. This series is lacking that friendship and teamwork that Riordan developed gradually throughout Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

Favorite fictional friendship*

Aza Holmes and Daisy

These two. Daisy surprised me by showing up for Aza in ways that indicate maturity and emotional intelligence. I appreciated the security of their friendship, even while tough issues (like finances and health) challenged their bond. Also, ‘Holmsey’ is the sweetest nickname!

Book that made you cry

Solitaire by Alice Oseman

Solitaire played at cute then gutted me with jabs of emotion. The pacing is real strange. There’s a lot left unresolved.

But the mysterious entity ‘Solitaire’ is genuinely my favorite thing! Solitaire is breeding rebellion using flashes of music and tech sabotage. It’s stupid. That’s not how people communicate – or, wait, is it? Whoever Solitaire is, they’re communicating the way they know how and it’s futile. I. Feel. This. 😭

It was depressing. Maybe don’t read it if you’re already in a crisis, okay? #selfcare

Best Audiobook Production*

Simon Vs The Homo Sapien Agenda by Becky Abertalli

Production value 10/10! Simon is funny, kind and earnest – as is the performance of this sweet teen romance. It’s impossible not to relate as a former teenager who had to deal with cliques and hormones and family drama. And actual drama. #theatrenerds

It’s interesting to read a teen drama where the main character is aware of their own privilege, actively struggling to connect. The arc follows Simon as a friend/son/brother becoming a kinder and more self-accepting person (humor intact!)

Simon’s voice is unique. Even if he swears a lot (which I usually hate), I still wish the heroes in Heroes Of Olympus felt more like this.

Didn’t live up to the hype*

The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles #1) by Rick Riordan

This is now the only series in the Riordanverse I’ve not yet read. It’s been slow going, even though I love Ancient Egypt stuff and I had just enjoyed Moon Knight! Maybe book 2 gets better. I just keep forgetting about Carter and Sadie. Sigh. But I won’t give up on them.

New release you haven’t read yet, but want to read

Book Lovers by Emily Henry (Published May 2022)

It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute. If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s no hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

From Goodreads, book description – Book Lovers, Emily Henry

Could this read any cuter? If I could pour it directly into my brain I would. (And it’s not even YA.)

Favorite book to screen adaptation you’ve seen this year?

Heartstopper. Duh. It’s YA heaven! And the soundtrack. Gah! I don’t even really want to read the Heartstopper graphic novels. Am I weird?! I read the sort-of sequel, Solitaire. But I’d prefer to wait for season two on Netflix to actually see the characters again. I love the Scott Pilgrim film but never tried to read those graphic novels, either. I just haven’t. 😅

What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

With Club Austen I am reading this Matt Haig novel with weekly discussions. It’s a journey!

The Midnight Library – Matt Haig

Of course, I won’t stop reading Heroes of Olympus. I love the final book in this series, so much.

The Blood Of Olympus (Heroes of Olympus #5) – Riordan

And for Jane Austen July…I’d like to try Sanditon, although which version to choose?

The Kane Chronicles trilogy – Riordan

This Rainbow Rowell audiobook is loaded up. Do your worst, Rowell! 😭

Eleanor & Park – Rainbow Rowell

Whew. And now: back to following Percy Jackson Fan Art on Instagram. You know where to find me! #fangirling

More book freak outs? 2020 ~ 2021

More fangirling? ~ Percy Jackson Playlist #SpoilerAlert

My February Book Hoard

A bookdragon toes the line between love and greed. Do we admire all that glitters? Yes! Do we devour it all? Nope, because we’d bury ourselves under mounds of books and be trapped for all time.

But today is special! My newest book hoard perfectly matches my bookish mood. I will take a very short break from reading to show you these beauties!

“He lay back on the low stone wall, knees pulled up, and stretched out his spine against the rock. The bird song pierced the early-morning air in little shrieks that hammered at his very skull.”

My summary

Change is inevitable in Chawton, a village sorely struggling after the war. Former resident Jane Austen still plays her part in the village goings on—at least, her novels do! A love of reading Jane Austen ties various characters together, transforming lives and subverting expectations.

Having read this novel together with my book club, I’m so grateful I can relate to Mimi, Adam, and the others! Jane inspires me to live authentically, to laugh at absurdity, and to rebel against society!

“Finn Mallory’s tie felt like a fancy, expensive noose. As he climbed the steps of Wharton Academy, an exclusive school that serviced the elite who could afford a hefty tuition, he loosened it with one hand and pushed open the doors to the school secretary’s office with the other.”

My summary

16-year-old Finn owes it to his parents to attend boarding school, after all, he is the reason they died. Among posh subjects and clubs, he learns of a secret society presenting the opportunity to travel through time…but at what cost? The Time Trials bend and break the grieving teen, testing fragile friendships along the way.

Why Time Travel? It was a fantastic backdrop to the reconciling of psychological effects of the past and the present. (And I’m 100% here for the mysterious, steam punk-fantasy vibes!)

Boarding school can be lonely. Despite challenges, four teens draw support from one another. Most nostably, roommates Finn and Edison form a fast friendship. With little in common, Finn’s determined kindness and Edison’s loyalty grow a deeper empathy between the two young men.

Autism representation: This was a different representation of neurodivergence than I’ve seen before in fiction! Finn works to better understand his new friend’s autistic experience. Edison proves a patient listener. I hope they return in book two!

“The epic road trip of my dreams features two bags of junk food, one awesome girl, and ample music. No murders.”

My summary

Xander’s life is about to begin! Graduation pending, he’s planning the best summer ever with his besties Jill and Tucker. One thing—one person—could destroy it all. Xander faces his trauma as his new life—new girlfriend, new college—suddenly falls under the black shadow called Gary.

Xander is a witty, intelligent character. Normally, I avoid very dark themes like abuse, but I had a feeling about Life Before. It is now on my short list of favorite books! It’s about surviving, healing, self-awareness and self-esteem.

We need books about surviving because everyone eventually needs help but finds themselves isolated, overlooked. We need to see friends and families pulling together to save one another.

This is a lesson I also gleaned from a Harry Potter fan fiction I read recently: A Marauder’s Plan! An Alternate Universe re-telling wherein Sirius saves Harry by taking on the entire Wizarding World was everything I never knew I needed. Apart from being a well-plotted and imaginative re-telling, the story was emotionally compelling. International travel, collaboration, magical mental health solutions and political subterfuge, plus the small matter of an undead dark lord—you know what, just read it!

“When I was seven, I thought I moved a pencil with my mind.”

My summary

Anything is possible for Desi Lee! At least, she finds this to be the case in academia, sports, and even in her family life. Love should not be difficult after all she has been through, including the loss of her mother. Despite her determination, carefully crafting her flirting technique based on K-dramas may have unexpected results.

Yes, the theme of this month is clearly: grieving children! I read the first page and was hooked immediately. Like Desi, I had confidence in my own abilities throughout childhood (just not telekinetic, or long division)! But, as looming adulthood collapses our sense of self, it is time to dig deep and discover our personal flaws.

“Elin woke to the sound of the door opening. It was not yet dawn.”

My summary

Elin and her mother keep apart from other villagers. Her mother cares for the kingdom’s arsenal of water serpents. When a deadly plot lands Elin alone and in danger, she discovers powerful truths about her family, the serpents, and herself!

Magical creatures, anime vibes, Japanese culture? I hope so! I’m so excited to have found this highly rated e-book for a great deal! It was translated to English, so I’d like to watch the anime in Japanese (with English subtitles) afterward.

I’m off to read!

I feel a deep emotional openness allowing me to submerse myself in these fraught narratives. I’ve read three of these five books so far. Therefore I will continue my adventures, and I will update you soon as to whether my big ol’ heart is satisfied. ❤️

Also, I need to share these epic posts from book bloggers I very much admire! (I’m steaming with envy!!!) 📚

Book Haul #79: New Year, New Books ~ Zeezee with Books

I had to: The Cat Markings Book Tag ~ Read Betwixt Words

Valentine’s Day Book Tag ~ One Book More

Thank you for reading! 🖤

My Bookish Contradictions

My TBR is calling. I need a book binge! Wintertime also means cozy television, so I’m watching the series ‘Bones’ for the first time! (I didn’t have cable in 2005, okay?) This has me wondering, why do I enjoy procedural shows, but I don’t read crime novels? A weird contradiction! And today I have 8 more bookish contradictions to admit to.

Contradictions

1. I love this genre but I didn’t like this book.
2. I rarely read this genre but I loved this book.
3. I love this trope but I didn’t like this book.
4. I hate this trope but loved this book.
5. I love this author but I didn’t like this book.
6. I previously disliked a book by this author but I loved this book.
7. I love this cover, but I didn’t like this book.
8. I don’t like this cover, but I loved this book.
9. Tag someone! (If copying, please give credit to Booktuber Only If For A Page.)

Beware, spoilers everywhere! Let’s begin.

1. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

I love the dystopia genre! You know I do. But this supposed “classic” is terrifying in the creepiest way. Is it because I listened to the audiobook? Is it the orgies? The chanting? The voice describing the manufacturing of human beings, their drugged up lives, and their childlike uselessness?

In this book, humankind has essentially lobotomized itself, congratulating itself on a perfect system. Nothing is private or independent, but is that such a bad thing? A glimpse at an authentic human moment (most notably, death and decay) reveals a nightmarish truth: perfection is impregnable. (And, now I’m sleeping with the light on.)

😱😱😱

2. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

I had seen the movie trailers. I expected some violence and impossible odds. Children fighting monsters. A doomed world. A ruthless game. My hand clapped over my mouth as, rapt with adrenaline, I sprinted to the last page. It was electrifying and awesome! (But I wouldn’t read it again.)

🤭🤭🤭

3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

I say the best books end on a hopeful note. There should always be hope at the end of a battle. It could be a single moment, looking into the face of a friend (or two), knowing life will go on. Did J.K. Rowling understand? Nah! Instead, she gave us what she wanted: a picture perfect farewell to her beloved characters. (Really?)

Every important character married with a family, successful and happy. (Boring.) The baddies are dead or defeated. The good guys are thriving. (Where is the tantalizing grey area we’ve been navigating all this time?)

At some point between the battle and the epilogue, the castle was reconstructed (by who, over how long a time?) and the wizarding students became functioning adults. But, what drives them onward? What do they hope to do? These are the questions JKR couldn’t be bothered to answer for fans of this compelling 7 book series.

…and they lived happily ever after. The end.

⚡️⚡️⚡️

4. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Forbidden romance is so unnecessary! I say, if someone is not romantically available, move on! Reality should be enough to douse idealistic fantasies. In fiction, it’s not. Falling in love from afar, or in the workplace, or against all odds, is too much for me. A boss keeps noticing the pretty employee? (Gross!) A teen pursues the surly bad boy? (Uh, good luck?) However…

In Vampire Academy, certain people are born to be trained as guards. Vampire society also demands that royalty breed only with royalty. (I mean, that’s way too restrictive!) Please understand, these are the strongest characters you’ve ever seen! Rose and her friends are much more powerful than longing and unhappiness. They are definitely strong enough to overcome heartache and death (whichever comes first)!

This teen-angst urban-vampire fantasy with the “forbidden romance” trope deserves a chance!

💔💔💔

5. The Best of Adam Sharp by Graeme Simsion

I bet you’ve heard of the title ‘The Rosie Project’. I love it so much. I enjoy the contemporary rom-com plot! The squirminess! And, especially, the dauntless Don Tillman and his found family!

But when I read another book from Simsion I was slightly let down. Adam Sharp is a music trivia-enthusiast who is slowly ceasing to care about things (like piano, and even people). Suddenly, he receives an invitation to revisit a past fling that might have meant a different life.

I liked the self-awareness and emotionality of Adam’s adventures. I even made a playlist of all the music mentioned throughout the novel! However, I failed to relate to the male mid-life crisis plot. There was no romanticizing this trek through Adam’s past choices. The truth is far too cynical (and, well, ugly) for my taste.

💙💙💙

6. Life and Death (Twilight re-telling) by Stephenie Meyer

I love to hate this mish-mash of barely edited ego. Most laudably, this novel has no sequel. (Yay!) It was silly, fun, teen-angsty—and vampire-angsty—so I could not resist!

I disliked books 2-4 in the Twilight saga, yet enjoyed this little Meyer-mutant! That was unexpected. Maybe I just needed to return to Forks. Maybe it was the tragic final meeting between wolves and vamps. (My feelings!) I much prefer the alternate ending to what Meyer wrote for the original Twilight novel. (And, yeah, the gender thing. A female Ed? Hilarious, yet compelling!)

For more of my thoughts on horror disguised as fateful romance, please visit Twilight: The Horror Romance and enjoy the angst!

🍏🍏🍏

#7. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

Speaking of “horror disguised as fateful romance”… (Sorry, sorry, sorry.) I’ve read it twice, okay? It doesn’t improve for me.

The cover is styled with artistic depictions of moors at the mercy of natural (and unnatural?) forces. But the written tone feels forced. And so dramatic! This is a story about a failed human experiment. Will anyone escape the moors alive to tell all?

💜💜💜

8. The Tenant Of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë

Fair enough, this cover is unexciting. When my book club decided to read the Brontës, I had never even thought of Anne! In The Tenant, we dive headfirst into a quaint village with Helen, a handsome, mysterious stranger. As quickly as we share in her fears, the curiosity of the village consumes us too. Who is Helen? Is the answer in her artwork? Her sneaky landlord? Her young child?

Too late, we realize that the question was not Helen’s identity, but the identity of those she left behind. There is suspense. Truth creeps in the shadows. Pastoral community veils a harrowing plot! (Truthfully, I’m more invested in every minor character in this novel than than I was in Heathcliff!)

🖤🖤🖤

Do you have any bookish contradictions? Happy reading, friends! (P.S. Can you recommend crime/mystery books for a Bones fan?)

If you enjoyed the post (thank you!) you might like… A Victober Bookdragon Hoard!

A Victober Bookdragon Hoard

Victober. I thought it was a spooky bookish event. I thought I’d need to read Dracula! Or Wuthering Heights (again).

I was wrong. See, Victorian literature isn’t all gothic thrill and desperate heroism. Morality may be expounded; characters self-aware or heedless, as well as the heroic. I have found this genre to be structured, inspirational, domestic – or a combination thereof. And sure, it’s often suspenseful!

The origin: Victober was created as a BookTube reading challenge!

I suspect it’s time to hoard some Victorian classics! Thanks to Club Austen, I’ve already discovered several Victorian novels that have transformed me. 🖤

A bookdragon needs to explore treasure from every era.

A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

Dickens describes hope and strength in the midst of poverty. His artful method assigns meaning to the grotesque; poetry to the mundane.

A frenchman rejects his inheritance, dedicating his life to the moral high road. Meanwhile, an englishman is “recalled to life” from The Bastille prison. A slew of innocent, guilty, and morally grey characters merge in a maelstrom of corruption and revolution.

Love

Suspense and secrecy unravel slowly and tantalizingly to reveal the truth in a shocking revelation.

Like

Fiction based on a real-life historical event: the French Revolution!

The oppression by the French aristocracy reaches boiling point. The peasant class rises as one to revolt. Even an old school textbook version of events horrified my teenaged self. Experienced through the eyes of Dickens’ ink-for-blood characters, it is devastating.

Hate

Monsters. To read about monstrous people and their dehumanizing acts which incited revolutionaries to violence is horrifying.

North And South by Elizabeth Gaskell

Margaret Hale is in transition. The wedding of her cousin marks the date she is to return to the love-filled parsonage where her dear parents reside. She is then quickly and unexpectedly transplanted again, this time to a strange location.

Now in a factory town, culture shock wars with the upright Margaret’s dignity. She confronts her biases as she meets the locals, including successful businessman John Thornton. Meanwhile, her quick eye and capable mind unravel the workings of her new, fascinating home.

Love

A strong female who is treated as capable by all who understand her. Margaret is deferred to by her parents. She carries herself with rational calm. By contrast, the whining and giddy females in her life tend to lift our queen high above all else.

Even today, it is notable that a female main character should be her own savior.

Like

Tolerance. When the doubter, the believer, and the dissenter can work together it proves love conquers all! I like to see a productive debate over law, religion, and faith. Take note, 21st century readers!

I would compare Miss Hale to Jane Austen’s Elinor, whose strength was also necessary and self-perpetuating.

Hate

When a wonderful character is only introduced at the end of a book! Mr. Bell ties everyone together (I won’t say how). His witty wordplay adds sauciness to a languid stretch and develops every character he meets. He is gold.

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

David Copperfield is a fatherless child, happily cared for by his youthful mother and her devoted housekeeper, Peggotty. When his new stepfather sends the sensitive boy to school, David finds protection under a charismatic elder student with his own dubious motives.

Life veers down the darkest of paths when David after his mother’s tragic death. However, he seems born to work hard. He has memorized stories and plays the hero time and again; the dutiful nephew, the kind stranger, the devoted employee. Will he realize that real life does not always deliver the hero from harm?

Love

The found family trope! Specifically, the eccentric found family: Mr. Dick, Betsey, Trotwood, and Little Blossom! I live for this flawed, saintly, loyal crew.

Like

A fake memoir. I don’t think this is an unusual trope in Victorian lit. (My favorite character of all time, Jane Eyre, was written in similar style!) They say Charles Dickens incorporated much of his own experience into this novel. I am sorry to hear it! Mr. Copperfield’s life could fill three lifetimes with heartache and drama!

Hate

A naïve main character. Time after time after time, David falls for a trick. A manipulation. A duplicitous friendship. I just want him to stand up for himself once.

So that was my October. I look forward to next year’s celebration of Victorian novels!

Above are the novels I’m coveting for my growing hoard. What are your favorite Victorian authors, novels, characters?

Thank you for reading! 🖤

Robyn the Weird – Checking In

It is the first week of September 2021 and I really want to write something! September is my favorite month of the year. I’m not a fan of summer, to be honest. Autumn is a glorious relief! 🍁

Problem: I have plenty of ideas for blog posts, but none that I really want to delve into right now. I poured a lot of myself into my last few blog posts and I might still be recovering emotionally.

Anxiety

Last week I caught a cold. I used my CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) toolkit to manage the anxiety over feeling ill (and getting worse). My doctor recommended a test for the COVID-19 virus and I tested negative a day and a half later. Whew!

I talked to my therapist on the phone for the first time in a couple years. I just needed to hear someone acknowledge all the internal work I’d been doing. I try to self-encourage, but there’s no replacement for the real thing: encouragement from someone who knows me well and can see how far I’ve come. 😊

Lifestyle

Currently, my favorite way to get out of the house is to download a podcast to fit my mood and take a walk around the block! If it’s cloudy, I’ll go out for sure. If it’s sunny… well, maybe with a little sunblock and baseball cap and sunglasses I’ll feel safe to venture out.

A little inspiration, a little fangirling, and a lot of comedy!

I’ve been working on expanding my ideas of nutrition and “safe” food. For example, I love Ketchup! But, anytime I eat it, a string of thoughts disparage my choice: “You don’t need Ketchup. You know it’s mostly sugar. And high fructose. If you get gut pain, it’s your fault for adding Ketchup!” Who could enjoy a meal with that voice in their head? 😝

I recently learned that it’s actually detrimental to cut a food type from the diet, especially if it’s a broad group like fructose (a FODMAP type). So, fructose-containing Ketchup, you are now an important and valued part of Robyn’s meal plan! I also like to mix Ketchup with hot sauce for a spicier hybrid, or with soy sauce for a saltier option.

Music

I hope that one day I will write poetry as powerful as Imagine Dragons! Their new album was released just in time to carry me through. Because I feel sad, I need music to remind me who I am at my core. Because I am preoccupied, I need to sit here and feel safe.

It’s okay to be not okay

It’s just fine to be out of your mind

Breathe in deep, just a day at a time

‘Cause it’s okay to be out of your mind

It’s Ok (Mercury Act 1) —Imagine Dragons

I have been thinking about getting my electronic drum kit back from my dad who borrowed it a while back, before we moved. Writing The Unmasking Of Robyn the Weird took me back to times when drumming was the only secure point in my universe. I want that again. Plus, Jordan has always loved that I’m a drummer! 🎶

The Future

Right now I am camped out on my cozy couch, with Spotify, Harvest Moon: Light Of Hope for Nintendo Switch, and Sweet Magnolias (that’s a great binge-watch, btw)! It is a safe space.

Three South Carolina women, best friends since high school, shepherd one another through the complexities of romance, career, and family.

However, from my current perspective, ideas for the future seem way too distant. My future looks like nature walks with my husband Jordan, visiting nieces and nephews, and trips to the movie theatre. How can we have faith that the future is on its way, when the present feels so very stagnant and dreary? I don’t know, friends. I don’t know.

Good News

Okay, first of all, I have set spiritual goals! I’m really excited to build a new prayer routine and read the bible, meditating on our loving creator. Nothing can warm my entire being like joining a Zoom call and recognizing that we’ve all shown up as a congregation to worship God and to support one another! ❤️

I’ve been reading just fantastic books lately! Young adult adventures, with happy(ish) endings, and imaginative fantasy worlds! The latest has been The Tethering by Megan O’Russell! Book two, The Siren’s Realm had the desperate sweetness of J.K. Rowling’s Prisoner Of Azkaban. I know, because I had to stop a while – you don’t move on to Goblet of Fire without a breather, am I right?

For autumn, I am excited about rainy days watching You’ve Got Mail and Gilmore Girls. Maybe taking walks with friends. Maybe new dinner recipes. The next book on my Kindle, the latest podcast episode, and the next Friday book club discussion!

I really, really want to be okay. I want you all—friends and family and anyone out there in Internet-land—to be okay. For now, okay could be enough. It’s not forever, and someday we’ll even be wonderful again!

Love,

Robyn the Weird 💙

Jane Austen July

I’m obsessed. It is never a challenge to explore Jane Austen’s genius in my reading—and in life!

I love and appreciate Jane’s voice for its control, amusement, and moral judgment. I often feel drawn to pick up one of her six novels, whether ebook or audiobook, for its soothing and entertaining familiarity! Which would you say is your favorite, and why?

This Challenge is hosted by: Blatantly Bookish, Books and Things, and Spinster’s Library on YouTube #JaneAustenJuly2021

Impressions & Confessions

I was not early to appreciate this sort of novel. In fact, I watched the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film adaptation before ever having read the famous novel! To my credit, I bought the book quickly afterwards and it became my new favorite!

Next, I tried to read Persuasion…and failed. The introduction and explanation of the Elliott family was so dull! I did eventually finish reading Persuasion, but my slow start had made the swift resolution seem far too abrupt. I felt let down. It would take a re-read or two before I began to consider this a favorite.

When I read Sense and Sensibility, I was hooked on the sisterhood and the inner strength of Miss Dashwood! I thought it was even better than Pride and Prejudice! (I still flip-flop between the two books to this day.)

I confess, I did not enjoy reading Northanger Abbey the first time. To be fair, I did not understand the gothic literary references. I didn’t realize at first that Catherine was more a caricature of girlishness than a heroine. In the end, I decided that Mr. Tilney was very much worth understanding!

Mansfield Park became an immediate favorite, contrary to expectation. Whereas Northanger Abbey is ironic and dramatic, Mansfield Park is serious. Fanny Price feels the atmosphere gradually shift as the Crawfords invade The Park. The Bertram family is seemingly oblivious to an unanswerable sense of impending doom!

I suppose that Emma is the most difficult to enjoy because the title character is neither innocent nor self-aware. But when I consider that this book is a comedy centred around a strong female lead, and that Emma has as much right as any male hero to overcome her flaws, I admit this novel is a true masterpiece!

More Austen!

Although I love her novels, their retellings and adaptations tend to fall short. Yet there are so many of them! Can you blame me for my trepidation?

#7. Watch a modern re-telling

Clueless is a sassy, silly, quality film based on ‘Emma’.

Comedy? Check. Clever female lead? Check. Social hierarchy, delicate friendships, and 90s teen rom-com vibes? Check, check, check. I have re-watched this so many times!

Alicia Silverstone, Paul Rudd and Brittany Murphy star in a pic beloved by all! The Austen plot is cleverly blended into modern Beverly Hills life. The main character, Cher Horowitz, plays matchmaker at her high school whilst believing herself to be above it all.

#6. Watch a direct screen adaptation

Northanger Abbey (1987) is based on the novel of the same name, but takes liberties with the overall tone.

The character development was severely lacking, which is an egregious offence. The one redeeming quality was its recreation of the ambiguous act of “taking the waters” at the pump room in Bath.

I shouldn’t be surprised, however, because many film adaptations miss the mark. If you had only ever seen the adaptations you might be surprised to know how deeply emotional, practical, and even silly, Austen novels can be. Here are four that I highly recommend!

#5. Read a book by a contemporary of Jane

I can’t prove this, but I think Charles Dickens must have read Austen! Dickens writes biting social commentary with heavy irony, intricate plot, and happy conclusions for the deserving characters. Sound familiar? Oliver Twist was excellent and suspenseful, and Club Austen will next read David Copperfield.

Maybe I should seek out books by other writers from Austen’s time period…but I’m not sure where to start. Help!

#4. Read a retelling

Pride by Ibi Zoboi

Zuri’s older sister Jenae is interested in the new boy across the street. This is going to ruin her plans for the summer.

• Intelligent and caring characters ❤️ (With clever names based on Austen’s Pride and Prejudice!)
• Dialogue-driven plot ❤️ (He said WHAT? OH NO!)
• Tangible stakes ❤️
• A clever, modern twist! ❤️ (Who knew that gentrification of city housing would be an excellent background to bookish Zizi’s struggle with prejudice?)
• An artistic audio performance! ❤️

Longbourn by Jo Baker

I was very intrigued at the beginning to know how the maids’ stories would end. However, by the end of the second volume, I just no longer cared.

• The twist: The events of Pride and Prejudice from the POV of the servants.
• There are more secrets in the Bennet household than you might suppose.
• A jarring flashback away from Longbourn made it feel like a different novel. It became violent.
• An explicit narrative with darkness unnecessary to an Austen retelling.
• The audiobook quality was as inconsistent as the writing.

#3. Read a non-fiction work about the regency era

Ellie Dashwood on Youtube creates video explanations of historical facts and literary references! My favorites include: Who Was Jane Austen? Her Life, Works, & Who She Wasn’t and Are Lizzy And Darcy in the Same Social Class?

#2. Read something aside from the main novels

Today I learned about The Canceled Chapters Of Persuasion!

These two chapters are an “alternate ending”. The unpolished lines resemble an original script, where the scene was eventually cut. It was fun to read, certainly! It was clearly replaced by the tense drawing room scene, with a secret, hasty letter professing love, and tender meaning passing between two sets of earnest eyes.

In this first draft, the resolution had occurred because a jovial Admiral (as his profession was bound to do) ignored social restraints to prevent misunderstanding, thereby accidentally forcing the hero into conversation with the heroine over the state of her hand and heart. It would have made a comic play, but was ill-fitted to satisfy the deep passions of our beloved Anne and Frederick!

#1. Read one of the six main novels

Earlier this year, I listened to the Librivox recording of Sense and Sensibility. I was surprised how relaxing it was to listen to a favorite, for example, while working on a spreadsheet, cooking dinner, or MarioKart racing.

My emotions are less engaged when I am listening rather than reading, so I notice more of the details. This week, I chose to listen to Persuasion!

Do you realize how many instances there are where we, the reader, are aware of motive and emotion that the characters themselves will not admit to? This novel should have been titled, “Obstinacy and Ignorance”!

So, Janeites…

I need your recommendations because I have been burned before!

Can you recommend a witty, charming, poignant adaptation? How about an informative blog, podcast or book? And would you please warn me away from fiction inspired by dear Jane that departs too disturbingly far from her style?

Thank you for reading! 💙

If you enjoyed this post, you may like Deal With Drama Like Jane or Queen of Highbury (Emma.).

Mid-Year Book Freakout (2021)

Is it June, already?! There’s a heat wave coming this week, and I’m ready to hole up indoors and enjoy writing about some books. What do you like to read in the summertime?

This year has been atypical so far. I feared that my vision was worsening, but a trip to the Optometrist proved only that my eyes were chronically dry. Thanks to audiobooks, podcasts, and new music, I have survived the weeks of mandatory rest for my eyes. A series of treatments later, and I’m ready to get back to my ever-lengthening TBR list! 🐉📚

#1 Best Book You’ve Read So Far In 2021

A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

A Tale Of Two Cities was just so poignant, and I need more! Charles Dickens’ voice is saturated with irony. The best part was experiencing this tale for the first time with my brilliant book club friends, Lucy, Mon and Maria! We are finishing up Oliver Twist soon, and I’m sensing another fast favourite. ❤️

Free audiobook available on YouTube via Librivox.org

#2 Best Sequel You’ve Read So Far In 2021

Ice and Sky (Ena Of Ilbrea #3) by Megan O’Russell

This is a story of survival. Survival for Ena, the enduring main character, and survival of a people who have been crushed to the brink of existence.
Ilbrea is a desolate place, but special folks carve out their own havens and make their stand against evil, and that makes this story worthwhile.

#3 New Release You Haven’t Read Yet But Want To

Tower of Nero (The Trials Of Apollo #5) by Rick Riordan

Apollo is changing. I didn’t know gods could do that. I guess it’s the immortality-thing. Thankfully, in this final instalment of this series, Apollo is still mortal!

He is awkward, sullen, and he is still playing servant to a snarky girl called Meg. Why not try to confront his mortal enemy? This can only end well.

#4 Most anticipated release for the second half of the year

All Ways by Kelly Coons

“With humor and warmth, author Kelly Coons introduces neurotypical readers to the rich interpersonal lives of [two autistic] people, challenging biases about autism. At the same time, Autistic readers will feel at home with Andreas and York as they come to terms with their “differences” and move boldly toward their future.” —About ‘All Ways’ by Kelly Coons

#5 Biggest disappointment

Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline

Ugh, I don’t want to talk about it. (See my review at Robearsbooks)

#6 Biggest surprise

The Real Doctor Will See You Shortly: A Physician’s First Year by Matt McCarthy

This memoir was described to me as a funny, candid account of a doctor’s intern year. I’d been listening to a Scrubs podcast and hoped that this memoir would fit in with the humor/medical mood!

It was entertaining, sure. But it was also surprisingly compelling and full of human connection. Twists and turns. Dr. McCarthy recollects his excruciating progress through thirty hour shifts, stale food and trauma. Struggling to connect with patients without losing touch with reality, Matt is gradually forged into a Real Doctor.

I listened to this Podcast on Spotify, but here’s the main link. So funny, and interesting with behind-the-scenes details! Fake Doctors Real Friends with Zach and Donald Definitely check out the episodes guest starring Judy and John C! ❤️❤️❤️ #fangirling

#7 Favorite new author (debut or new to you)

Megan O’Russell

My favorite part of reading her books is that I never want to stop. It’s actually painful not to have the next book in the series! At least, I can explore her other series while I wait! (See my blog post about her latest, here.)

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Suzanne Collins

I knew to expect excellence from The Hunger Games author, but her substantial, poetic prose surprised and impressed me! (See my blog post reviewing The Hunger Games and more…here.)

#8 Newest fictional crush

The Code For Love And Heartbreak By Jillian Cantor

This extra-sweet teen romance is loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma! This Emma is a talented but socially awkward student, rather than a social queen. Why does she care about matchmaking? Well, she has to invent an app for her coding club, and—well, you’ll see!

#9 Newest favorite character

Javier (from vN: The Machine Dynasty #1 by Madeline Ashby)

Javier is an adult android, created specifically to save the earth from global warming. That may be the reason he was born, and what he is good at, but can he do more? And how long can he keep outrunning (and out-jumping) the violence and injustice?

Javier is supporting character to Amy in this science fiction thriller about artificial intelligence. The plot takes place in a dystopian system in which one religion monopolizes artificial intelligence. The extreme religious teachings affect all people, both organic and synthetic.

#10 Book that made you cry

Let Me Hear A Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson

You know that I love books about music! The poetic lyrics interspersed throughout intensified my empathy for the teenage characters as they grieved for their friend.

“Korey Jackson, Nile Bullock, Adenrele Ojo, and Adam Lazarre-White take turns narrating this young adult title set in the ’90s in New York City. Each narrator brings a unique and heartbreaking voice to life. The story follows two best friends who try to honor the life and rapping talent of a friend who has died. With the help of his sister, they hatch a scheme to make him famous from beyond the grave by getting him a record deal. The quartet of narrators has such distinct voices that the story plays out like an audio drama. These captivating performances will keep listeners glued to their earbuds. This is an audiobook that begs to be binged.” —audiofilemagazine.com

#11 Book that made you happy

Tone Deaf by Olivia Rivers

This is a special book. The author wanted to create a main character living with a realistic disability. Compared to the often romanticized dysfunction common to YA, these characters strike me as realistically sincere, and flawed, survivors.

Here, we have a book with a musical theme, but primarily we follow Ali as she fights for her life. After reading the final paragraph, I then jumped back to page one on my Kindle, starting it over again! It was just too emotional to feel everything in that first read.

#12 Most beautiful book you’ve bought (or received) this year

I had lent my friend a book a while back, and recently she gave me a heads up that she was mailing it back to me. Great! As it turned out, she was using this as an excuse to send me a gift:

A handmade book. Wow. Made from up-cycled material, this journal could be used as a scrapbook, travel journal, or maybe even a poetry book. I imagine that Jane Austen herself possessed a book such as this to record her thoughts.

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#13 What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

• I will definitely continue to read Charles Dickens.
• I’ve just started another O’Russell series, it’s kind of Riordan meets Rowling! The Tale Of Bryant Adams
• I’m excited to slip back into the world of androids via the sequel to vN …when I’m ready.
• Did you know about Jane Austen July? Apparently it’s time for more Austen obsession, and I’m here for it!!

There’s no pressure here, though. Slowing down this year has heightened my appetite for both fiction and non, and I feel blessed with abundance! Please comment to recommend any great audiobooks or podcasts (whether or not they’re about books). I love to learn, and I need some laughs.

Thank you for reading. Stay safe! 💙

Deal With Drama Like Jane!

Hey, Janeites! Have you noticed that everything is a bit much lately? Between work, a global pandemic, health stuff, and family stuff, sometimes the drama seems never ending.

Thankfully, we have Jane Austen! Jane’s protagonists are models of poise and gumption. Even today, in the age of social media, their examples hold up. Here are six ways to imitate these heroines when dealing with drama!

Be a Lizzy

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Excuse yourself.

The situation: The wealthiest and most pretentious person Lizzy has ever met suddenly shows up at her home demanding to see her! Imagine being in your comfy clothes, unable to remember how you left your hair. All that stands between you and pure mortification is your composure, so you try to act natural.

I feel anxious even imagining this scenario! For those of us with social anxiety, surprise visits are hell. Thanks to Lizzy, if a condescending visitor stops by, or a stranger insults me to my face, I know how to respond with: You are rude, and we are done.

“You can now have nothing further to say,” she resentfully answered. “You have insulted me in every possible method. I must beg to return to the house.”

Pride and Prejudice, chapter 56

Be an Elinor

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Let the haters hate.

The situation: While visiting friends, Elinor is invited to a group hang that includes relatives of her secret crush! Having already accepted that she and her crush aren’t going to happen, she decides to be amused by the family’s snobbery. They are giving her the cold shoulder in such an obvious way that it’s kind of funny!

I’m inspired by Elinor not to let negativity draw me in! There are always toxic conversations happening on social media. Sometimes my friends jump in and I have to resist engaging. But I don’t want to be like Marianne who embarrassed Elinor by openly showing concern. Let’s not give the trolls that satisfaction!

She could not but smile to see the graciousness of both mother and daughter towards the very person—for Lucy was particularly distinguished—whom of all others, had they known as much as she did, they would have been most anxious to mortify; while she herself, who had comparatively no power to wound them, sat pointedly slighted by both.

Sense and Sensibility, chapter 34

Be a Catherine

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Speak your truth.

The situation: True, Catherine Morland is naive. Yet her openness is pure and admirable! Misunderstanding? She’ll clear that right up. If she likes someone, she’ll say it. It’s a rare trait, especially considering regency era women were expected to use a very specific script to properly socialize.

We are all taught how to make “polite conversation”. However, telling the full truth instead can set the tone for a deep new friendship. We attract authenticity when we show our true selves. I want to seek out new friends with enthusiasm and joy, like Catherine!

“Oh! Mr. Tilney, I have been quite wild to speak to you, and make my apologies. You must have thought me so rude; but indeed it was not my own fault, was it, Mrs. Allen? Did not they tell me that Mr. Tilney and his sister were gone out in a phaeton together? And then what could I do? But I had ten thousand times rather have been with you; now had not I, Mrs. Allen?”

Northanger Abbey, chapter 12

Be an Anne

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Assume the best.

The situation: Anne is the forgotten Elliot sister. Written off by her family, undervalued and unsupported, she develops a keen sense for both genuine and superficial behaviours. She often forgives seemingly selfish behaviour. When a jilted ex comes back to town, she even manages to assume the best in his actions!

If I don’t know why someone is ignoring me or offering advice or criticism, it’s difficult to assume they have good intentions. But I want to! After all, when my anxiety disorder flares up, I don’t want other people to assume I’m ignoring them, or that I am bored with their friendship. Flawed friendships are still valuable ones, especially if, like Anne, we need help to keep toxic people from dragging us down.

“So altered that he should not have known her again!” These were words which could not but dwell with her. Yet she soon began to rejoice that she had heard them. They were of sobering tendency; they allayed agitation; they composed, and consequently must make her happier. Frederick Wentworth had used such words, or something like them, but without an idea that they would be carried round to her. He had thought her wretchedly altered, and in the first moment of appeal, had spoken as he felt.

Persuasion, chapter 7

Be a Fanny

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Show devotion.

The situation: Fanny Price is the wallflower of Austen heroines. Her humility is often jarring. But she displays loyalty to her own values and to those who have been good to her. When she faces abuse or defamation, she can bear it as long as her best friends still think well of her. Her principles are a sturdy support.

I’m extremely careful about sharing my private thoughts and feelings. When someone earns my trust, I’m excited to prove my respect and affection! Like Fanny, highly sensitive people need to be careful choosing friends. Therefore I’m looking for Fanny Price’s qualities in a friend: humility, morality, and compassion.

Her own thoughts and reflections were habitually her best companions.

Mansfield Park, chapter 8

Be an Emma

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Just laugh.

The situation: Emma is kind. She brings joy and energy to the lives of her friends. She also likes drama. Okay, she loves drama! If she does get hurt feelings, rather than show it, she’ll simply laugh it off. It’s a strength and a skill, especially in her gossipy town.

“Silly things do cease to be silly if they are done by sensible people in an impudent way.”

Emma, chapter 8, volume 2

It’s not about getting the last laugh. It’s about giving yourself an out! No one is perfect. If someone is calling you out, it’s gonna hurt. Laugh to care less about a needlessly rude comment. Laugh to show them—and yourself—that you’ve already moved on.

“It is very unfair to judge of any body’s conduct, without an intimate knowledge of their situation.”

Emma, chapter 18, volume 1

Above all, I hate gossip, which involves taking pleasure in the struggles of others. Gossip dissolves all trust. When a situation escalates, I try to remember Jane Austen’s advice as acted out by her radical protagonists: demand dignity and maintain your sense of self, despite how others behave or react.

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Which character are you most like? Right now, I am probably most like Catherine, navigating drama unwittingly. But I hope to become more like dear Anne Elliott, floating undisturbed over a sea of drama!

Which heroine’s example do you find the most inspiring? Please comment!

Thanks for reading! 🖤