The Comfort Book Club / 'Father' by Elizabeth von Arnim

Welcome to this month's Comfort Book Club discussion! My Mum, Donna, and I are chatting about August's book club choice, 'Father' by Elizabeth von Arnim, a funny, warm-hearted and thought-provoking read. There are spoilers in this chat, as we're assuming you have read the book if you watch. Special thanks to the readers who sent voice messages for this video, which were included in our discussion:
Naomi in the UK
Emma in the UK
Penny in the USA
Gina in the USA
Cristina in Spain
Jason in New Zealand
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BOOK CLUB: I host the Comfort Book Club with my Mum, Donna, and every month we pick a comforting read and discuss it on the last Friday of the month. Everyone is very welcome to read along with us. Learn more about #TheComfortBookClub (and find the list of upcoming reads) here: mirandasnotebo...
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LINKS:
(affiliate links used for Blackwells)
Father by Elizabeth von Arnim: blackwells.co....
The Lark by E. Nesbit (Dean Street Press edition): blackwells.co....
The Lark by E Nesbit (Penguin edition): blackwells.co....
Persuasion by Jane Austen: blackwells.co....

[@teresaparkins1255]

Hello Donna and Miranda, what an interesting read for the Comfort Book Club in EVA's book 'Father'. I found EVA's genius is in dealing with quite taboo, for the time, subjects in a cleverly comedic way but you were definitely made aware of alarming and disturbing aspects of the relationships within the book. With Father, especially I felt, EVA was describing something quite dark and worrying especially when Netta tells Jennifer that she has no experience of marriage and that he even makes her uncomfortable at breakfast - for goodness sake she is not much more than a child! It made me wonder what experiences EVA had had to inform this piece of fascinating writing. Also, as an aside, sixty years ago when we moved house my parents found ourselves continually digging up tins of cat food and other such things where the previous owner buried them in the garden - well, well, well. I can't wait for the next read in this book club series and wish everyone a happy time reading, Teresa 📚♥

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, I had the same thoughts about EVA's own experience, Teresa. It made me wonder how common it must have been at that time for young women to set off on honeymoon very unsure and ignorant of what was to come! How interesting that your parents found all those cans of cat food! Perhaps it was a common way of getting rid of tins in the thirties?

[@gmk3692]

Dear Miranda and Donna, thank you so much for doing this wonderful book club. I have only recently started watching your videos and read with you in July and August. I have very fond memories of the UK, having lived there in the 90s but only go very rarely these days. I love reading, I always have, but only in the last couple of years found out how essential it is for my wellbeing, to MAKE TIME to read, even if it's 15 minutes at the end of a busy day. Your recommendations so far have been excellent. I mean PG Wodehouse, ... what can I say, ... I have a lot of thoughts about "Father". Last year I read "The summer before the dark" by Doris Lessing and somehow it did touch me in a very similar way. It stirred a lot of emotions. And of course I reflect on my own position, and the women in my family. Although the characters sometimes act in such awful ways (including Jenny throwing out her tins), it all makes sense the way von Arnim lets us into their thoughts. They do not act out of viciousness (not even Alice), they are worried or scared or insecure or angry. They are all so human. I have already bought The Lark as an ebook (thank you Donna for the inspiration), and reserved Persuasion at my local library and as the weather turns and the children go back to school and I start a new job I am looking forward to reading these books before bed. A big hug to all of you at the comfort book club, Gudrun

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for joining us, Gudrun! I hope you enjoy The Lark too. Yes, von Arnim writes so well: she really brings the characters alive and involves you so thoroughly in their dilemmas. It's so important to me too to take time to read. Good luck with your new job!

[@ingertsvard6731]

Thank you so much Miranda and Donna for this interesting and lovely video. I found the book “Father” very funny but it has strikes of discomfort. The funniest part I think is when Jennifer cleaning out her garden and throwing the snails and tins over the wall to the church it made me laugh out load. The discomfort comes when you see that Jennifer’s happiness and freedom comes with an other woman’s (Netta) lost of freedom. This that can leads to put women against each other instead of together. Thank you for all your very good recommendations Miranda. And I have to say that “British Library Women Writers” books are both beautiful and very good reads. So many more good books to read.

[@MirandaMills]

That is a very funny scene! In the end both women get their freedom - Netta doesn’t tolerate ‘Father,’ which is a very good thing!!

[@pamelapoet9]

I kept envisioning Bill Nighy as my favorite awfully wonderful character traipsing through those sardine tins. Von Arnim is so good at sketching that internal tug-of-war between the confidence of breaking free and the uneasy comfort of the familiar. Thank you so much for another lovely recommendation and discussion. I always leave with a deeper appreciation of that month's novel. I just finished reading Persuasion, so I'm especially looking forward to your birthday month's discussion! p.s. In thinking of the novel's title, it's interesting to consider how Jennifer has to (literally) toss off the "fatherly" cloak--of the "devil," no less--to make her way to her cottage of freedom.

[@MirandaMills]

Haha! I can picture that now too, Pamela! Such an interesting observation, as yes she does have to ditch that cloak! Thanks so much for your very kind support and words too: I so much appreciate it! Can't wait for Persuasion myself - how great you've just finished it yourself!

[@faithwentworth7906]

I really enjoyed this discussion and the comments of everyone. While reading Father, I was struck by how readily Jennifer took to her new found independence although she had lived her entire life as a very sheltered dependent. Ironically, it is Father who can not be independent whatsoever. Even if Netta had stayed, Father needed Jennifer to run the home and help him write his books. In his words Father says, " Unfortunate, then, that one couldn't do without them; most unfortunate..... so there one was, --- dependent. " In a sense, it is Father who is the most trapped of all. He can not thrive without Jennifer, while, Jennifer in turn is finally able to thrive without him. Although in many ways a very different book, Father reminded me of Barbara Pym's Excellent Women more than once during the course of reading. Same themes of surplus women, societal expectations of those women and the finding of a meaningful purpose in life.

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, I so agree Faith re. Father being the one who is trapped by his own demands and inability to manage his household or work without unstinting help from Jennifer (and is quite literally trapped by the breakfast tray at the end too). And, a great comparison to Excellent Women.

[@Natalia-ex2bu]

I think it’s interesting that Jennifer and Alice’s characters are older women who supposedly ‘missed out’ on happiness because of not getting married young and are forced into servitude for men in their families. However, the young Netta does get married as expected to a man of some means and distinction yet her life is not at all happily settled. The rigid formula for a happy / fulfilled life which society placed on women then and even now hardly fulfills expectations. Jennifer is finally engaged to James , a man younger than she is. Alice accepts ‘Devilish’s need for her skill as a housekeeper as love. Even though she initially tells him it’s not possible that he loves her she agrees and her joy and excitement far overshadows his simple satisfaction as having secured a new housekeeper. The book is an enjoyable and thought provoking read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you

[@MirandaMills]

You're so welcome, Natalia. Enjoyable and thought provoking sum up the experience of reading for me too!

[@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071]

Marvellous discussion, I feel so honoured to be part of your wonderful CBC, Miranda and Donna! I also enjoy all the other members' comments, both recorded or written. This book club is a precious treasure for me 🥰 I'm already reading "The Lark" and can't wait to begin "Persuasion"!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your wonderful message, and very kind comments, as always, Cristina! I hope you love The Lark and Persuasion as much as we do!

[@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071]

@@MirandaMillsThank YOU! I'm loving The Lark and can't wait to Persuasion, I have never read it!

[@emily_robinson]

I'm with Cristina from Spain. I really wanted Jennifer to have a happily ever after on her own, even though I understand it wouldn't have been realistic. There was a lot in the book I liked, a lot that frustrated me too. But as I was finishing this book before going to work, it really made me grateful that I am able to do so and grateful for the independence it has afforded me.

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, it makes you very grateful for the greater freedom & choices we have now!

[@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071]

Lots of love from Spain, Emily!!!🥰

[@NadineTouzet]

Hello Donna and Miranda, this was a wonderful read and the writing is so clever and modern in some ways. The way Elizabeth von Arnim describes Jennifer « growing down » in years as she is bullied by her domineering father to the point where we fear for her resolve, the epic battle of the brother and sister, of which she actually tells very little, only through the reactions of the French passengers, these were high points of the novel for me. Thank you for this recommendation!

[@MirandaMills]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it Nadine, and thanks so much for your comment as always.

[@Emmie4497]

Such a great discussion, as always! I love listening to your thoughts and those of the other Comfort Book Club readers. You always pick apart so much that I haven't considered - especially with regards Jennifer's financial situation and the prognosis of her freedom had she not found James. I didn't think about what the ending might have been had Jennifer remained single. There's food for thought!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your kind words, Emma, and for your fantastic voice message! Xxx

[@penny3748]

I was so frustrated with Alice, and then my heart softened to her when she resigned herself to James’ plans and I truly understood her plight. Elizabeth Von Arnim-what an author!

[@MirandaMills]

So agree, Penny! She's such a great writer!

[@cerridwencottagediary9194]

Very fitting that your video came out today on Von Arnim's birthday

[@MirandaMills]

We knew that when I'd set the date, but, of course, forgot to mention it when we were doing the recording! It was serendipitous timing though!

[@suenicholls5446]

😀💕xx thanks so much Miranda and Donna for a very interesting podcast. I too really enjoyed the book. Lots of love. Xx p.s. I couldn’t keep my eyes from the beautiful display of books on the shelves behind you. I shall definitely read the lark. Sounds absolutely lovely. My library don’t have it but I have put in a request to purchase and I’m sure they will buy it for me! Thanks again both.

[@MirandaMills]

You're very welcome, Sue! So glad you enjoyed it, and hopefully your library have got ahold of The Lark for you!

[@monikamarsollek3493]

Hi, Miranda, thank you both for sharing! After enjoying the travel company, this was another unknown book from Elizabeth von Arnim for me. I knew among others ,Entchanted April', 'Elizabeth and her garden' - in which she complains not to be allowed to dig on her own, only giving orders to the gardener about her ideas: so I wasn’t surprised that Jen had the deepest wish to do gardening on her own… I enjoyed the occupation of the little rose house, the night on the mattress in the orchard (except the end) so much. I always like to read about unexpected changes in life (do you know 'The blue castle'?), and here were a lot of changes, even for FATHER , though not in his mind. The whole time I was frightened, that Jen will go back … I was frightened of and angry about Alice at the same time. What kept me thinking most was fathers difference in writing and living, nicely put in words from his young wife. I was curious about your video, and started it before I finished the book, but stopped, when you began talking about the end… now I’ve finished both, the book and the video. Amazing to hear all the voicemails and opinions, picking up different aspects of the book! I’ll read the next ones, too, with you! I know PERSUASION, a wonderful reread, and THE LARK will be new for me. Love from Germany, Monika❣

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you for your kind words, Monika!

[@shanne6625]

I am still finishing this book, but I really enjoyed the group discussion. It has inspired me to hurry up and finish reading it. I feel I am more enlightened after hearing the discussion. I appreciate your comments Donna and Miranda. You brought to light several points I hadn’t considered, such as the creation of a garden of her own. I loved that idea! I believe everyone should have a space to call their own and as a gardener, my garden is my heavenly space. I identified with Jason’s discussion. I thought his comments were spot on in the ultimate choices made by the characters. Thank you for suggesting such a good read with humor and depth.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much, Shanne! So glad you enjoyed our discussion, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the book. Elizabeth von Arnim is a favourite writer of mine partly because of her focus on gardens and the joy of nature and solitude. Hope you enjoy some time in your garden this weekend! xxx

[@MichelleElsten]

Hello Miranda and Donna. Thank you for recommending this book. It is one of the two Von Arnim's that I had not read and I always love her humor. I so appreciate you bringing more attention to this author as I am always recommending her to my American friends and acquaintances and, surprisingly, many people are not familiar with her here in the states. On another note, Miranda you are such a strikingly beautiful young woman. I could not stop admiring your gorgeous pink dress. I have a daughter around your age and she too is born in October so I feel your Mum and I have a lot in common. Lastly, I never tire of your lovely British accents. 😊 Looking forward to Persuasion and hope you and your Mum are well. We too had Covid recently and it was worse than I anticipated. So glad I found you here on this thing called World Wide Web. Or as my anglophile daughter and I like to say ... women wearing wigs 😉😄. All my best and apologies for the long comment. 😊📚

[@MirandaMills]

Lovely to hear of another Mother and Daughter who love these books. I'm very glad you enjoyed Father and the discussion too, Michelle. Von Arnim deserves to be better known, I so agree. Thanks so much too for your kind words!

[@karenhousby]

Thank you so much for recommending this book, what an absolute gem! The coat scene will bring a smile to my face for years to come ~ so funny x

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your support! 💕

[@jopreston476]

Thank you Miranda and Donna for the interesting chat about the book Father. It was an interesting read and I am a real fan of Elizabeth Von Arnim and am slowly reading through her novels.

[@MirandaMills]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it Jo!

[@debf2487]

Thank you. Your discussions are always enjoyable and the inclusion of the voice messages is excellent.

[@MirandaMills]

That's very kind of you to say, Deb! Thanks so much for your very kind support. I really appreciate it!

[@sharonrosner4873]

Hi Donna and Miranda. Thank you so much for hosting the Comfort book club. I so enjoyed the book and the discussion.

[@MirandaMills]

That's wonderful to hear, Sharon! Thank you for watching and reading the book!

[@jasonlow8029]

Hello Miranda. Thank you (and to Donna too) for a fabulous book discussion; von Arnim's 'Father' is certainly one of my favourite books that I read this year. The CBC choices and your channel's literary recommendations are consistently spot-on great. Though I never get the predictions right when trying to guess what the CBC will select for the upcoming months 🙂, I always enjoy the CBC book selections (looking forward to Persuasion after The Lark). Thank you for helping me achieve a great reading year. All the best, Jason

[@WaterBearReads]

Jason I just want to say that I loved your message and agree that the quote about houses and lies really just drove it home. That line really stood out to me. Great message!

[@jasonlow8029]

@@WaterBearReads Many thanks for the kind words.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks to you as always, Jason for your fab message, kind words and generous support! It's all so appreciated! Haha! I don't like to be too predictable! with the choices!

[@shanne6625]

Loved your comments about loss of liberty of the women.

[@Bonnie-gc2zu]

Thank you ladies, for another terrific book recommendation and discussion! Can't wait to dig into 'The Lark'!

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it, Bonnie! I'm excited for our discussion of The Lark and hope you're enjoying it!

[@mandymann7195]

Thank you Miranda and Donna for a most interesting book club discussion on ‘ Father’. Having also enjoyed April’s book club choice, I now intend to move onto ‘Vera’ by the same author. Thank you so much for introducing me to Elizabeth Von Armin !

[@MirandaMills]

Vera is another great choice, Mandy! I'm so glad you're enjoying her books too!

[@rhondadownes207]

This was another thoroughly enjoyable read! The characters all had such definite personalities and were so easy to imagine. I couldn’t believe how furious and distracted Devenish became when he saw Jennifer wearing his coat! Why couldn’t he have just asked how she came to be wearing it?! It did make me a bit sad that Jennifer only had about a week’s worth of her much longed-for freedom in her little cottage, and interrupted freedom at that, having to go back for a few days to her father’s house to tidy things, the stolen kiss from James and her regretful thoughts on sending Netta back, both causing her distress, finding out that Devenish was her temporary neighbor, and among other bits, the shocking visit from her father that ended with her having to leave her beloved cottage so hastily to accompany him back to his house. At least her marriage to James sounds like it will be a contented one! Thank you both for another splendid story! ❤️💚💖

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it, Rhonda!

[@bobbirubinstein8462]

I loved the book and couldn't wait to pick it up at the end of the day. von Arnim's way with words is amazing. I wanted James and Jennifer to get together, for James's sake. He deserved so much better than what he had with Alice. He would adore Jennifer and she very soon would realize what a catch he was. They would be good for each other and good to each other. And I didn't see the end coming, all the loose ends tied up for everyone. We're looking at it through 2022 eyes, not 1931. I think readers in 1931 would be very pleased with it. And honestly, I'm up for a good old fashioned happy ending. Why not? The world's uncertainties and difficulties were still there when I put the book down. Thank you so much. Got The Lark. Have never read Persuasion, can you imagine.

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it Bobbi! Thanks so much for your kind words, and I so agree - I think it would be a very happy marriage for James and Jennifer! Hope you find The Lark and Persuasion to be as enjoyable as we do!

[@kamicastillo1451]

I am so excited when it is discussion time for the #comfortbookclub! As always, enjoyed the voice messages and hearing you and Donna's reviews. Thank you so much!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for those kind words, Kami! So glad you're enjoying TCBC!

[@glendaslanina9939]

Hello Miranda and Donna. Thank you for choosing another lovely read. My circumstances are nothing like Elizabeth’s life however I can relate to having need of a garden, my dogs, travel and a bit of freedom. For these reasons, I enjoyed Jennifer’s need of freedom. But actually Alice was my favorite character. She was such a needy person trying so hard to keep James in her control, that is until she felt loved and needed. What a transformation. I will never look at a sardine can the same in the future without laughing a bit. Thank you again for this choice.🌸

[@MirandaMills]

You're so welcome, Glenda! I'm so glad you enjoyed the read, and I feel the same way about sardine cans now too!

[@chbronte582]

I really loved this reading Miranda, a very special book by von Arnim, thank you very much for such a wonderful choice and for the discussion video, I am temporarily nursing my mother and it will be a good distraction for me to watch it tonight. Have a nice week xxx

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much! Hoping your mother is feeling better now, and it did indeed provide a welcome distraction! xxx

[@archiemarman4246]

I just finished reading Father as you posted the Vlog. Firstly glad you and Donna are feeling so much better. I started the comfort book club with The Enchanted April and as much as I loved that book, Father was so thought provoking. I too wondered why Jen would jump so readily into a role as wife after gaining freedom but realised perhaps my modern sensibility was kicking in. I think you are right in as much as a desire to have a child and a steady reckoning that £100 a year would not sustain her impacted. But also I think James is not the sort of man to stifle and I like to think that Jen would have certain freedoms and her opinions and thoughts valued. That together with love and companionship seems a good trade. My own great aunt was born in 1911 and a life long spinster. I am ashamed to say I had never really thought why that might be. So coming to this period of literature and considering the plight of the surplus of women I am looking with fresh eyes at Aunty Betty. In some ways she was luckier than Jen as no tyrannical father but a need to earn a living. This led to a pension due to ill health and she eventually bought her cottage. So thank you for the great choice (as ever). Looking forward to opening The Lark tonight and ecstatic about October ‘s choice. My aunts cottage was in Farringdon about a mile from Chawton. To me the is no greater love story than persuasion.

[@MirandaMills]

So interesting to read your reflections on this book and about your Aunt’s circumstances. I agree that ‘Father’ provided much to think about - one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much! Glad you’re excited about the upcoming CBC reads - I certainly am! 😊

[@siobahn2011]

¡Gracias!Thank you again Donna and Miranda for this lovely discussion about Father. It was my first Von Arnim reading and it certainly won’t be the last one. I have enjoyed every page of it, and admire the bravery of Jen and her fast decisions and actions. I would like to say that I appreciate Jason’s messages to the CBC, they are always so right and I couldn’t agree more with him. Besides he’s always here and for me a great member of the CBC, with great appreciation too to the other members who always send a voice message. It is a lovely community and I am so happy to be a little part of it. Can’t wait to the next CBC video. Kind regards to everyone from north Spain . Isabel

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your kind words and support! It’s very appreciated, and I’m so glad you enjoyed your first con Arnim, Isabel! You’re right, I think, the Comfort Book Club community is extra special! Xxx

[@sally-t5s]

Such a wonderful story! I think I ran the whole gamut of emotions from tears running down my face from laughter at the debacle on the train to frustration with Devenish that Jennifer didn't have a hope of getting the first cottage because she was wearing his coat! To a very uncomfortable feeling surrounding Netta asking Jennifer for help with her relationship with Father. Elizabeth von Arnim is becoming a particular favourite of mine. I have a copy of Love to read next. But can I just say one word... Persuasion 😍

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed Father, Sally! She's a wonderful writer I think. Yes, can't wait for The Lark and Persuasion!

[@jennifermielo-shook3174]

Loved this one and not just because my name is Jennifer. 🙂 I just finished Lark (which I also loved) and noticed some similar themes. These discussions are always a joy and I look forward to the next one. ❤️

[@MirandaMills]

Haha! Great name! So glad you enjoyed our discussion and reading The Lark, Jennifer!

[@maggie6512]

Really enjoyed reading Father. Thank you for introducing this to me. I am very pleased to hear that Persuasion is coming up. I have, on pre order, one of the new editions so this is perfect timing.

[@MirandaMills]

So happy you enjoyed it Maggie, and yes, I'm looking forward to the new edition of Persuasion as well!

[@joysedgwick812]

I couldn’t wait to listen to your discussion but just had to finish the book first! The plotting of the book reminded me most of Moliere, using satire and humour to focus on a particular trait in human nature. For me Jennifer and James both start the novel as the ultimate people pleasers, whilst Alice and “Devilish” definitely deserve each other!! I was willing Von Arnim to allow Jennifer to enjoy her simple cottage existence, but the happy all round ending made me smile nevertheless. The scene on the train was laugh out loud funny and probably the highlight of the book for me.

[@MirandaMills]

I love that scene too, Joy. EVA really has a wonderful ironic and comic style to so much of her writing!

[@nancyfritz1827]

This was a fantastic book club and I loved listening to and reading everyone's thoughts and perceptions of this wonderful novel. I so wanted to talk to someone about this book as I was reading it (my copy is full of underlined passages, margin notes and "post its") and was so eager for this book club video. Von Arnim has become one of my favorite writers and Jennifer one of my favorite literary characters. I was touched that James first fell in love with her voice and her ideas of freedom and happiness. I am optimistic for their future and believe they can create their own version of a long and happy marriage - with respect to each other's integrity. After all, they both fought hard for their individual freedoms. While as women we are still struggling with some of the themes in this book, it is a reminder of how far we have come, how lucky we are and what we owe to the women (like Elizabeth Von Arnim) who helped pave the way. While reading "Father", I thought of Anne Elliot so am thrilled that "Persuasion" is the October choice. Looking forward to the re read (and the excuse to watch the 1995 film yet again). Have a wonderful early September weekend, Miranda and Donna!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your interesting comment and very kind words, Nancy! I am optimistic for a happy marriage for James and Jennifer too, and like you, even if there are still struggles, I am grateful and aware of how much more freedom we have now as women compared to women in Von Arnim's time. Can't wait for the Persuasion discussion too!

[@mirjampauwels]

Thank you Miranda and Donna, I loved this book and the Book Club discussion about it 😊

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Mirjam!

[@karolineakemp]

Thank you for recommending this book and giving me the impetuous to pull it off my TBR shelves. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and for such an enjoyable read it raised some really interesting points about the options for single women at the time.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your comment, Karoline! I'm so glad you enjoyed Father.

[@sinu931]

This was brilliant, loved the book, so glad you pointed me towards this wonderful author!

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so glad! I think EVA is an amazing writer! Xxx

[@redandpink219]

Another delightful discussion ladies, thank you! Elizabeth Von Arnim is one of my favourite writers. Just wondering if you have considered making the vidoes about an hour long? The topics you discuss are always so interesting, and I for one would love more.

[@MirandaMills]

I'm so glad you enjoyed our discussion, Heather! Von Arnim writes so well.

[@naomisbookshelves4412]

A great discussion as always. Thank you so much for recommending this wonderful book. ❤️

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much Naomi for your lovely message! So glad you enjoyed it too!

[@diamondslashranch]

Another great book club I’m so glad I found you! I have read so many lovely books on your recommendation.

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so glad! Thank you very much for your very kind words 💕

[@kathleencraine7335]

Wonderful book and discussion as always, Miranda and Donna. I'm slowly making my way through all von Arnim's books. Earlier this month I read von Arnim's The Caravaners (1909), which has a bullying husband, but his poor wife is still with him at the end. Father is a more hopeful book and perhaps reflects changes in attitude from 1909 to 1931. I also wonder why in the text he's called *"father"* and not "Father." I'd be interested to know why von Arnim made that choice. Looking forward to The Lark and my umpteenth re-read of my favorite Austen.

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, I agree that 'Father' is a much more hopeful book than the Caravaners, which is pretty chilling despite the humour! So glad you're looking forward to the next CBC reads. xxx

[@sandraelder1101]

I adore Persuasion!!!

[@susanekins8580]

I very much enjoyed reading Father, but I wasn't sure Jennifer and James will end up married. That is the ambiguity for me. She has, after all, sent him away decisively. In that time frame, could she simply say, "Oops, I changed my mind"? I was of the impression that a refusal such as this was shameful for the man and I would guess final. Am I mistaken, or is the ending ambiguous in this way?

[@MirandaMills]

We both thought Susan that Jennifer and James would indeed end up married. Minnie had no doubt either that they were "engaged" even if at that point, it wasn't clear how quickly they'd be able to get married. I'm so happy you enjoyed the book!

[@Rainydaylily]

I also gave some thought to the title "Father." After reading the book I felt that Von Arnim called it that since it was Father's character that set off the plot, and that echoed throughout the book.

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, exactly!

[@WaterBearReads]

Thank you Miranda & Donna so much for another wonderful and valuable read! I loved it - I felt a ton of anxiety while reading it - but in a good way that served to pull me in. I also loved the humour and the thrill of blossoming romance. I couldn't put it down! I've had to reread the ending too as I just can't make up my mind about the nature of Minnie's, role in Father's end. Was it truly a mistake? Or was there a part of her that knew what she was doing? Like you said in the video- the ambiguity at times of the story makes it so interesting. Thank you again!!!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your very kind words and generous support. It's very much appreciated, and yes, Von Arnim's writing is so good!

[@isamandrino9082]

I think that Jennifer is a very lovable and affectionate character ; she was frustrated because her father didn't let her love him and she has so much love in her that she profoundly needs to give it to someone. The end was, in my opinion, a little abrupt and the death of father a little too convenient, but this book is by some aspects a fairy tale so it can explain the liberties taken in term of likelihood. Alice remains for me a tyranic and manipulative character, and we can only hope that Devenish will be less a puppet in her hands than her brother was !

[@RitaCwise]

I did not enjoy Enchanted April but absolutely loved Father.

[@lahlahful]

Terrific!

[@mtngrl5859]

Hello Miranda, You and your mum are so wonderful, I love both of your energy. Such a great video! I will need to check into this book! Excited to do the read along with Persuasion, my favorite Austen book! Your book case is so colorful-- do you arrange the books by color?

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it! No, I don't arrange them by colour. Persuasion is my favourite as well!

[@mtngrl5859]

@@MirandaMills Thanks for responding! My husband admires your library as well, he noted the beautiful colors of your books. It's a tranquil space and love your floral arrangements too.

[@tuppenceandbobneedlearts]

Hello Donna and Miranda.....another wonderful video and discussion. I have only just received by copy of Father but certainly look forward to reading it after listening to your comments. The Lark sounds like a lovely read and, well, Persuasion should not be a better choice as it is my favourite of all of Jane Austen's novels. Cheers from Canada.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Melanie! I love Persuasion too!

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[@MirandaMills]

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[@MirandaMills]

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Thank you so much for your generous support; I so appreciate it! Xxx

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@@MirandaMills You're welcome! Thank you and your mother for hosting such a wonderful book club.

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