Jane Austen is one of the most iconic authors to put pen to paper. During her lifetime, she wrote six bestselling novels that have rarely been out of print. For over two centuries, readers have fallen in love with Austen’s characters, and her books have been adapted into graphic novels, movies, television shows, and modern retellings.
Austen’s books feature everyday people and universal themes such as fitting in, growing up, and falling in love. It’s no wonder readers of all ages still love her books today. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Austen’s work or discovering her books for the first time, here are ten facts you should know about this beloved author.
1. Jane Austen came from a large family and a crowded home.
Jane had six brothers and one sister, and her father ran an all-boys school out of their home in the countryside. It’s safe to say that Jane knew what living in a full house was like!
2. She had very little formal education.
During the late 1700s, most girls didn’t attend school outside their homes. Although she spent some time in boarding school, Jane’s formal education ended when she was eleven.
3. She based her stories on real life.
As Jane and her sister Cassandra attended dinner parties and balls, she paid close attention to other people. After every event, she wrote down what people said and did, including details like bad breath and questionable motives. She used these details to enrich her stories and bring her characters to life.
4. Jane Austen was unlucky in love.
She fell in love only once, to a young man named Thomas Lafroy. When his family found out about their budding romance, they sent him away to London, effectively ending the relationship. However, Jane used her brush with love as inspiration for a new novel she titled First Impressions, which later became Pride and Prejudice.
5. She got engaged for one day.
While visiting a friend, Jane received a proposal from a man five years younger than herself. At first, she accepted. Although the marriage would have offered Jane a home and security, she was not in love. The next day, Jane ended the engagement.
6. She was a country girl at heart.
Jane grew up in the countryside and loved taking long walks through the forest, fields, and hills. Even when her father retired, and the family moved to the bustling city of Bath, Jane longed for the countryside.
7. Her first book almost didn’t get published.
Jane’s brother Henry sold the rights to a novel titled Susan to a publisher in London. You’ve probably never heard of it because it was never published under that title. Thirteen years later, Jane managed to buy back the rights to the manuscript and retitled it Northanger Abbey.
8. Her kindness saved her family.
After her father died, Jane, her sister Cassandra, and their mother were left destitute. Her older brother inherited everything, leaving the women homeless. However, Jane generously looked after that same brother’s children when his wife died. In exchange, he let the three women live in one of his homes.
9. She was a late bloomer.
Although she wrote stories nearly all her life, Jane was 35 years old when her first novel, Sense and Sensibility was published. Although published anonymously, it was wildly successful and paved the way for Jane to continue her writing career.
10. She believed in herself.
Jane faced many setbacks because she was a woman, but she never stopped believing in herself. Twice, her publisher refused to print her novel unless she paid for it — which she did. No matter how many challenges she faced, Jane’s perseverance ultimately paid off, making her one of history’s most beloved authors.
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Want to learn more about Jane Austen?
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Who Was Jane Austen?
Available from:Get to know the woman behind the words with this highly illustrated chapter book. Readers of all ages will love learning more about Jane Austen, how she grew up, where she got her inspiration, and how she overcame obstacles. Readers will feel inspired by her kindness and tenacity.
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