When I first saw that there was a version of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ illustrated with pictures of guinea pigs in costume I thought it looked a bit ridiculous! But I was also a little intrigued. Since Christmas is a traditional time to receive a novelty gift I was pleased to find this book under the Christmas tree with my name on it.
It’s ‘Pride & Prejudice’ in a vastly condensed form, with some apt quotes from the book to illustrate the photographs. The main points of the story are there, which I thought was quite an achievement by the author in such a short book, and since quotes from the story are included it still retains a flavour of Austen. Most of the main characters are there, although there are some notable exceptions such as Lady Catherine de Bourgh. The pictures of the guinea pigs, some with bonnets, some in military uniform, others in top hats, are very sweet.
I thought this book was really fun, and very cute. It would make a nice jokey gift for an Austen-loving friend with a sense of the ridiculous as long as they don’t have an aversion to guinea pigs! I would advise that you don’t spend a lot on it though, as it’s quite a small book (approx 13cm by 17cm / 5” x 6½”) and it’s a very quick read. I’d rate this as a 4 star read.
I can't thank you enough for including this, Ceri. I've wrestled with buying this since it came out. I didn't know if this was a kids book or not. Guinea pig is the national dish in Ecuador and, in fact, my grandkids ate barbecued Guinea pig for lunch this past Sunday. So I didn't want to get it for them. For me? I now might have to purchase it.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't class it as a children's book, I would say it's an adult's novelty gift. I was surprised though, I thought the abridger did a good job and the quotes really help keep a feel of Austen to it.
DeleteHa ha ha someone I know popped it through my letterbox at Christmas with a note saying saw this and thought of you! Haven't read it yet but am excited lol 😄 thanks for the review
ReplyDeleteHope you enjoy it Tamara! The good thing is that it's a quick read, I know you're a busy lady :)
DeleteLooks like a fun, quirky read. I don't think I'd get it for myself, but I would find it a fun book to get as a gag gift or check out at the library.
ReplyDeleteYes, it'd be a fun gift, and ok to buy as long as you can get it inexpensively. You could probably read it while you're in the library, it's that short! I enjoyed it though, was pleasantly surprised as it was better than I thought it would be.
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