P&P Challenge: Recorded Books Audio

The Recorded Books version of Pride and Prejudice is the complete and original text written by Jane Austen and narrated by Flo Gibson. Since I haven't really recapped the novel yet, I suppose I will for those who haven't read it. Pride and Prejudice is about one of five sisters, Elizabeth Bennet, in 19th-century England. The Bennet family is known in their area for having so many daughters and being generally pleasant, if a little obnoxious, people. Elizabeth is the second-eldest-daughter, and she has a bit more common sense than the others. When a rich gentleman and his friends move into the area and are introduced to everyone, there is a lot of hope and excitement that he will marry one of the local girls. The real surprise, however, comes from the new gentleman's best friend, Mr. Darcy, who at first spurns Elizabeth and then falls in love with her. This book is a classic observation of 19th-century British society, humanity, and how people continue to learn and change throughout life.

The Recorded Books audio version of Pride and Prejudice was interesting. Flo Gibson's voice has a slight rasp to it, which I found annoying at first. Her voice was pleasant; it just didn't seem to have enough variation for the characters. As the novel went on, however, I grew accustomed to the rasp, and Gibson expanded her tone and inflections to provide more variation. In the end, I found this version to be very enjoyable. It adds a calming quality, which I liked. I don't know if this is more due to Gibson's voice or the fact that I always take comfort in having a book read to me, but either way, it was worthwhile.

I know I haven't been updating my blog as often, but hopefully my previous posting frequency will resume in April. We just celebrated Gabe's first birthday, and it was great! I can't believe it's been a whole year. Also, I took a break from some more serious reading to speed through the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. I've written mini-reviews for each book, but I plan on posting them all together after I read the companion and the last of the series, which is due to be published in May, I believe. Anyway, keep an eye out for some more great reading soon! I hope you all are having a wonderful early Spring!