Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
This is an original novel and not a pastiche by Joan Aiken, exploring the possible history of spoiled, rich, Emma Woodhouse and her contemporary, young orphan Jane Fairfax. Both are pretty, clever and talented children, although the disparity in their fortunes and station in life will necessity place Emma in the role of patroness, and Jane that of patronized. The book takes us past the childhood of our two heroines and through the events of Austen's novel, but with clear-eyed and independent Jane as the narrator (of course, the reader never does get a satisfactory explanation of how she winds up with that insufferable jackass Frank Churchill. Jane could do much better). Aiken's mastery of 19th century language and mores makes this a particularly enjoyable book.
Is Jane Fairfax appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
Clean Regency-era retelling of Emma from Jane Fairfax's perspective with focus on class differences and social mores. No violence, romance, or strong language—appropriate for teens and adults who enjoy character-driven historical fiction.
What to know going in
This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include abandonment and class struggle.
Who'll love this
Teens who love Jane Austen adaptations will enjoy seeing Emma's story through the eyes of the overlooked Jane Fairfax.