Relevant Fiction Reviews: Classics (II)

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Classics The Scarlet Pimpernel, Jane Eyre & The Moviegoer: My takes in Relevant Fiction Reviews.
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The Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While I was familiar with the book’s title, I had absolutely no idea what to expect from The Scarlet Pimpernel. I found the first few chapters slow, but once the narrative concentrated on Sir Percy and Lady Marguerite, I was hooked.

The Scarlet Pimpernel’s daring and courageous rescue of French aristocrats during the French Revolution made for exciting adventure. Coupled with the self-discovery made by the Blakeneys, I thoroughly enjoyed the tale. Their eventual humiliation (in the true sense of being humbled) and sacrifice for one another made for a satisfying ending.

Probably the most fun I’ve had with a classic!

The Moviegoer by Walker Percy

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’d been wanting to read one of Walker Percy’s books for a long time. I guess the most indicting thing I can say about this book is that I found it very easy to put down and forget about.

I normally tear through books in a couple of days, and this relatively short book took weeks to get through.

The last two sections held my attention much better than the beginning and middle, but, overall, the meandering style, however expertly written, couldn’t hold my interest.

That said, there are some interesting philosophical questions raised and some beautifully written passages. I’m willing to give Percy’s work another shot before I write him off as one of those authors I don’t quite “get.”

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I first read Jane Eyre in high school. Of all the required reading I did in high school, it was one of my favorites. Flash forward a couple of decades, and I thought it was time for a re-read. Charlotte Bronte’s novel hadn’t lost its luster.

I recently read Erin McCole Cupp’s sci-fi retelling of Jane Eyre, The Memoirs of Jane E, Friendless Orphan. (It’s available as a series of e-books – Unclaimed, Nameless, and Vanished – which I HIGHLY RECOMMEND.) After reading the modernized adaption, I was eager to re-read the original.

Here’s where having a horrible memory pays off: I was able to enjoy details on the third go-round that I’d missed before or long forgotten. Additionally, reading Cupp’s adaption brought new insights into the characters, circumstances, and salient points of Bronte’s classic.

To me, Jane Eyre has what it takes to keep me re-reading. A strong heroine whose self-deprecation and poverty (not necessarily monetary poverty) make her relatable. A firm moral backbone. A bit of mystery with some surprising twists. And enough of the weird and eccentric to spark curiosity and interest.

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