The Comfort Book Club / Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Welcome to April's Comfort Book Club discussion! My Mum, Donna, and I are chatting about this month's book club choice, 'Sense and Sensibility' by Jane Austen, a much-loved British classic. There are spoilers in this chat, as we're assuming you have read the book if you watch. Special thanks to the readers who sent voice messages for this video, which were included in our discussion: Laura, Jason, Anita, Marie and Christina.

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[Penny-wsmz]

Thank you for an interesting discussion.
When I read Sense and Sensibility for the first time in my teens I remember finding Marianne's behaviour quite annoying, but it is easy to forget how young Austen's heroines are. I also felt sorry for Eleanor who takes on a great deal of the responsibility for her family in a difficult situation and how they do not always appreciate it. In some ways Eleanor's situation is similar to that of Anne Elliot's in Persuasion.

[sherylmorris]

My favorite discussion of books. The comments of all participants, the selections, the camera setting give me such joy. Thank you all!

[barbaradobson]

Lovely to listen to the Italian lady’s comments. Enjoyed today’s discussion. Much to still consider from Jane Austen’s words. She still entertains and teaches us today.

[MJ-in-Canada]

Miranda and Donna, thank you for another enjoyable episode of “The Comfort Book Club.”
If Jane Austen was resurrected from the dead, I would of course thank her for her iconic novels, including “Sense and Sensibility.” But then I would ask her, “What was the point of Margaret?”

[shelliclarke]

As always, you two are absolutely lovely and such a comfort!

[naomihickman]

I loved this discussion of one of my favourite Jane Austen novels. Despite feeling very sorry for Marianne, I find myself quite fed up with her dramatic tears and outbursts, and also the way she often ignores social conventions, leaving Elinor to smooth things over. I remind myself she is very young! Elinor is one of my favourite heroines and I admire her caring attitude to Marianne while putting up with all this! I really agree with you about Willoughby being such an interesting villain - he must have had an incredible charm! - and Colonel Brandon truly is a much more “romantic” match for Marianne!

[faithwentworth]

Such an illuminating discussion! JA's writing is so multi-faceted that rereads always bring up new revelations and thoughts. Thanks Miranda and Donna!

[maryannestoner]

I enjoyed the Comfort Book Club podcast today. You mentioned that in the book the youngest child always seemed to be the favorite. My daughter like you Miranda is an only child and we always say she is our oldest, youngest and favorite child. lol I bet your mom would agree with that about you. 💕📚

[lindseymoore]

Thank you so much, Donna and Miranda, for your discussion - one of my favourites, so far! Your comments and those left by the Comfort Book Club really extended my enjoyment of this wonderful novel and Austen's wit and insight. And looking forward to trying out the old-fashioned fruit cake recipe x

[JemCope]

All Comfort Book Club episodes are lovely, but this might be my very favourite so far. Thanks again for such a wonderful discussion of Sense and Sensibility! Best wishes to you both, Jemma

[suzannegagne]

Let me be the first to say nice to see you both and sense and sensibility is my favourite Jane Austin book.

[mariacristinabuenoasensio]

My dear Miranda and Donna, I loved the discussion!! I am so sorry I could participate neither this time nor last one. I absolutely love this novel and also the wonderful movie. Patience, discretion, perserverence are really great virtues that I adore and that are present in the book. And my favourite character is Mrs. Darshwood, capable of downsizing and struggling but being caring and elegant. Love from Spain!!!

[cassandraclavesaint]

Sense and Sensibility has a special spot in my heart. It was the first Jane Austen i ever read. I really enjoyed the story, the contrast between the two sisters. I liked the calm pace of the story. My type of comfort stories to read

[redandpink]

Miranda and Donna, I always enjoy your book club videos, but this one was particularly lovely. What a great chat with insightful comments on Austen's book!

[mimishimaineko]

I really enjoyed reading "Sense & Sensibility", not only for its title theme (perfectly combined in sisters Elinor and Marianne--one cannot do without the other!), but also for its portrayal of family life and travails in a house full of women (it reminded me of home, being myself one of three sisters)!🧡

[Bonnie-gczu]

I always so enjoy the in-depth analysis of and discussions about the wonderful books you choose for the CBC, and I absolutely love to watch the two of you laughing and riffing off one another's insight's and opinions. Also - a little bit off-topic - per your glowing (no pun intended) recommendation, Miranda, I purchased a Serious Readers floor lamp, which arrived today. Absolutely marvelous - worth every penny.

[emily_robinson]

My aunt introduced me to Jane Austen years ago with the 1995 "Sense and Sensibility" film, and it became the first novel of hers that I read as well. Upon rereading and watching, I still feel this novel is my favorite of Austen's. What a nice discussion today. Thank you!

[juliethomson]

As soon as you both welcomed us to this month's book club with wonderful smiles straight away it brought back to mind the various chapters which described different characters smiling.
You certainly have put a smile on all of our faces today and thank you for recommending
Sense and Sensibility such a wonderful read and in some instances re read!🤗

[stacey__withanE]

I'm so thrilled to be reading along with you and your Mum every month. Jane Austen is the most comforting of comfort reads for me, and it was so nice to revisit Sense & Sensibility with you both, and hear your thoughts. I have also been reading the CBC backlist and really enjoyed reading The Enchanted April this month as well! Look forward to your newsletter on Sunday, fruit cake is my Dad's favourite so I know who I'll be sharing cake with :)

[moweaquas]

You two always add new views about books that I thought I knew. Thanks!