A Jane Austen Year

This beautifully illustrated book charts the life of one of the world’s most beloved authors, through the objects that surrounded her, the personal letters and manuscripts that she created, and the events that shaped her life and understanding.

It is published in partnership with the curators of Jane Austen’s House, the enchanting Hampshire cottage where her genius flourished that now attracts thousands of visitors every year.Arranged over the course of a calendar year, from snowy scenes in January to festive recipes in December, specially commissioned photography of Austen’s home and possessions are brought together with extracts from her books, reproductions of her letters, and stories of her life throughout the seasons. Highlights include affectionate letters to her sister Cassandra reproduced in full, the story of the publication of the first edition of Pride and Prejudice, and an exquisite miniature portrait of Tom Lefroy, the man she nearly married.Read this book for a unique and intimate insight into Jane Austen’s world. Dip into it as you will, or visit each month, and enjoy a full year of Austen – her life, works and letters, people and objects she knew, and of course her idyllic, inspiring home.