Reviews

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudice by Curtis Sittenfeld

heyyimaki's review against another edition

funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0

katiegilley's review against another edition

This was my first Sittenfeld and I am definitely going to find more by her. It was so much fun! This is a modern adaption of Pride and Prejudice, which I usually have absolutely no interest in. P&P is too perfect and nothing could hold a candle to it. But you must read this! All of the characters are named the same and their directions in the story are exactly the same, but they are modernized in the most perfect way. Lizzie is a big shot writer and editor and Jane is a yoga instructor in New York City when they are both called home to Cincinnati due to Mr. Bennett's sudden heart attack.

All of the daughters, except for Lizzie, depend on their father's inheritance heavily to make it through life and Mrs. Bennett is desperate for at least one of her daughters to find a nice, wealthy man to marry. And when Mr. Bingley comes to town, a recent reality TV star on a show that is very much like The Bachelor, it seems like the perfect opportunity for some matchmaking. Hilarity ensues. Seriously, this was laugh out loud funny in multiple places and I am so glad that I picked this up. I was looking for a fun, light read for the holiday season, and this was perfect.

caitless's review against another edition

funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

laelm10's review against another edition

5.0

mr. darcy as a sexy bitchy sulky brain surgeon ???!!!

laura_corsi's review

2.0

Granted I had low expectations, but I found this retelling of Pride and Prejudice to be lighthearted, occasionally funny, and surprisingly brilliant in the way Ms. Sittenfield incorporated the current cultural moment into the story of Liz and Jane. It was helpful instead of annoying that the author kept the names the same, as well. I read the book with Amazon's whispersync feature and found the audiobook to be very well done. It really helped me get into the P&P mode to hear it read rather than to only read it. I also found it interesting how the author reinterpreted some of the characters. Was Jane really that insipid in Jane Austen's version? Also, Lydia and Kitty while still rather vulgar come off slightly better in this day and age when such behavior is less scandalous. Thus, we are able to see through to something redeemable in them both. An interesting and mildly amusing romp into a modern Austen-esque world that shows the Austen fan that it is not necessary to travel back in time to have their own Austen experience.

carriecarvalho's review against another edition

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

deckleeditproof's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

ngj1031's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

bookish_emily's review against another edition

5.0

Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorite books of all time, so I was a little apprehensive about reading this modern version. I quickly realized that I need not have worried, because I loved every minute of this book! I read it in about 2 sittings because I couldn't wait to see how each piece of the original story would be re-imagined. If you think knowing the story means you can predict this book, guess again! I was taken by surprise more than once by unexpected plot twists that still somehow preserved the essence of the original work. A quick, delightful read for Austen fans and laypeople alike!

smfrazer's review against another edition

4.0

Cute and easy to read. Fun for those who liked Pride and Prejudice, but wouldn't be offended by some adjustments. Good for being sick or a beach trip.