The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet by Bernie Su and Kate RorickTouchstone Books, June 2014
400 pages
My Review
The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet, which is based on the web series The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, was an absolute delight to read. The novel is a modern-day retelling of Jane Austen's beloved Pride & Prejudice, one which I think does justice to Austen's original characters and story. The star of the book is communications graduate student Lizzie Bennet, whose thesis project involves making video diary entries chronicling her life and that of her family, and posting them on the web with the help of her best friend, Charlotte Lu. Lizzie's path soon crosses with that of William D'Arcy, an arrogant and standoffish businessman who arrives in town when his friend, Bing Lee, rents a home near that of the Bennet's. What follows is a tale familiar to any fan of Pride and Prejudice, albeit one told from a 21st century perspective.
I've read a few great retellings of Jane Austen's novels, but The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet has to be my favourite. I love how faithful the authors are to Austen's original story, and how they develop each of the characters to be representative of Austen's yet unique and memorable on their own. I had not watched The Lizzie Bennet Diaries prior to reading this book, but I definitely plan to do so now.
Highly recommended to Jane Austen fans.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Source: Purchased
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