Sylvia, you are right, Fanny isn’t quite as self-assertive as Austen’s other heroines and that assertiveness is one of the things I love about them so much. But if I don’t get to Mansfield Park during my binge, I’m quite sure when I will manage enough mental energy to get myself to pick it up.

Litlove, do you know what a relief for me it is to hear you say that? Perhaps if I end up liking MP on this re-read you might re-read it too?

devotedreader, I look forward to hearing your arguments should my re-read not induce a new appreciation of MP

Grad, I have not seen The Jane Austen Book Club movie, perhaps I should get it while I am on my vacation. We’ll see if my reading leaves me any time. And of course I will post on each book I read, probably more than once!

Jodie, I’ve seen the version of Persuasion you refer too. It is quite good. I have not seen the MP movie though. I like Billie Piper in Doctor Who so if it is disappointing maybe I will avoid it.

Kate, oh yes, I read and ended up enjoying Clarissa. It was tough going on it though for awhile. I will keep what you say about MP in mind as I read.

Daphne, yay! A letter! No matter that it is typed. Re-reading is hard to do and I have to plan on it or I never manage it. Austen is always good for a re-read, I never feel like I am missing out on something better.

J.S., well perhaps my reading of MP will inspire, or warn you away forever. I am curious to see if my opinion changes too, it has been a very long time since I last read it.

Iliana, Persuasion is wonderful isn’t it? Austen at her best. I’ve put MP on my pile so we shall see how it goes.

Dorothy, I was hoping you’d be going to the Austen exhibit. Please take pictures if you are allowed and you must report every detail!

Carrie, MP is a difficult novel. The fact that you liked it though gives me hope that my opinion will change.

Isabella, *gasp* just kidding You are not alone in not understanding what’s so great about Jane. It’s just that those who love her are more vocal than the ones who don’t like her.

Danielle, since I know I love Persuasion I’m going to go with MP and give it another chance. If it ends up being a horrible experience I’ll reward myself with Persuasion I liked Willa Cather, I hope when you read her you like her too!