The Comfort Book Club / Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Welcome to April's Comfort Book Club discussion! My Mum, Donna, and I are chatting about this month's book club choice, 'Sense and Sensibility' by Jane Austen, a much-loved British classic. 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: Laura, Jason, Anita, Marie and Christina.
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[@MirandaMills]

Welcome to April's Comfort Book Club discussion of 'Sense and Sensibility' by Jane Austen. This was a fun one! If you'd like Mum's recipe for Old-Fashioned Fruitcake (which will be sent out in my newsletter this Sunday), then you may sign-up for my newsletter here: www.mirandajanemills.com/newsletter

[@Penny-ws4mz]

Thank you for an interesting discussion. When I read Sense and Sensibility for the first time in my teens I remember finding Marianne's behaviour quite annoying, but it is easy to forget how young Austen's heroines are. I also felt sorry for Eleanor who takes on a great deal of the responsibility for her family in a difficult situation and how they do not always appreciate it. In some ways Eleanor's situation is similar to that of Anne Elliot's in Persuasion.

[@MirandaMills]

That's so true Penny! Two of my favourite Jane Austen heroines! ❤️📚

[@sherylmorris9646]

My favorite discussion of books. The comments of all participants, the selections, the camera setting give me such joy. Thank you all!

[@MirandaMills]

So happy to read your kind words, Sheryl! We feel so lucky to have such lovely and receptive subscribers who read along and participate so enthusiastically!❤️📚

[@barbaradobson9298]

Lovely to listen to the Italian lady’s comments. Enjoyed today’s discussion. Much to still consider from Jane Austen’s words. She still entertains and teaches us today.

[@MirandaMills]

So happy you enjoyed the video, Barbara! Yes, her novels still speak to us today, you're so right! ❤️📚

[@shelliclarke5563]

As always, you two are absolutely lovely and such a comfort!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much, Shelli! That's so kind ❤️📚

[@faithwentworth7906]

Such an illuminating discussion! JA's writing is so multi-faceted that rereads always bring up new revelations and thoughts. Thanks Miranda and Donna!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much Faith for your kind support. I so appreciate your generosity and am really pleased you enjoyed the discussion, There's always so much to say about Jane Austen wonderful novels ❤️📚

[@MJ-in-Canada]

Miranda and Donna, thank you for another enjoyable episode of “The Comfort Book Club.” If Jane Austen was resurrected from the dead, I would of course thank her for her iconic novels, including “Sense and Sensibility.” But then I would ask her, “What was the point of Margaret?”

[@MirandaMills]

Haha yes poor Margaret doesn’t amount to much does she?!

[@naomihickman5098]

I loved this discussion of one of my favourite Jane Austen novels. Despite feeling very sorry for Marianne, I find myself quite fed up with her dramatic tears and outbursts, and also the way she often ignores social conventions, leaving Elinor to smooth things over. I remind myself she is very young! Elinor is one of my favourite heroines and I admire her caring attitude to Marianne while putting up with all this! I really agree with you about Willoughby being such an interesting villain - he must have had an incredible charm! - and Colonel Brandon truly is a much more “romantic” match for Marianne!

[@MirandaMills]

So happy you enjoyed the discussion, Naomi! Elinor is such a favourite of so many of us I think: she's such a wonderful character ❤️📚

[@maryannestoner4065]

I enjoyed the Comfort Book Club podcast today. You mentioned that in the book the youngest child always seemed to be the favorite. My daughter like you Miranda is an only child and we always say she is our oldest, youngest and favorite child. lol I bet your mom would agree with that about you. 💕📚

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Mary Anne! So glad you enjoyed the video (and for the shout out for us only children 😁) ❤️📚

[@patriciatolliver4057]

Patty- My favorite line which may or may not be in the book comes from Mrs. Jennings. She says thus of Willoughby, "I hope his wife plagues his heart out for treating my young friend so abominable ill." There she is showing compassion for Marriane's broken heart.

[@JemCope]

All Comfort Book Club episodes are lovely, but this might be my very favourite so far. Thanks again for such a wonderful discussion of Sense and Sensibility! Best wishes to you both, Jemma

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your support, Jemma! I really appreciate it and it's lovely to hear you really enjoyed the discussion! ❤️📚

[@cassandraclavesaint]

Sense and Sensibility has a special spot in my heart. It was the first Jane Austen i ever read. I really enjoyed the story, the contrast between the two sisters. I liked the calm pace of the story. My type of comfort stories to read

[@lindseymoore9992]

Thank you so much, Donna and Miranda, for your discussion - one of my favourites, so far! Your comments and those left by the Comfort Book Club really extended my enjoyment of this wonderful novel and Austen's wit and insight. And looking forward to trying out the old-fashioned fruit cake recipe x

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed our discussion, Lindsey! xxx

[@mimishimaineko1173]

I really enjoyed reading "Sense & Sensibility", not only for its title theme (perfectly combined in sisters Elinor and Marianne--one cannot do without the other!), but also for its portrayal of family life and travails in a house full of women (it reminded me of home, being myself one of three sisters)!🧡

[@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071]

My dear Miranda and Donna, I loved the discussion!! I am so sorry I could participate neither this time nor last one. I absolutely love this novel and also the wonderful movie. Patience, discretion, perserverence are really great virtues that I adore and that are present in the book. And my favourite character is Mrs. Darshwood, capable of downsizing and struggling but being caring and elegant. Love from Spain!!!

[@MirandaMills]

That's so kind of you Cristina, thank you so much! I agree, Mrs Dashwood is such a sympathetic character. Take care xx

[@redandpink219]

Miranda and Donna, I always enjoy your book club videos, but this one was particularly lovely. What a great chat with insightful comments on Austen's book!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Heather! I'm so happy you enjoyed the discussion ❤️📚

[@juliethomson8745]

As soon as you both welcomed us to this month's book club with wonderful smiles straight away it brought back to mind the various chapters which described different characters smiling. You certainly have put a smile on all of our faces today and thank you for recommending Sense and Sensibility such a wonderful read and in some instances re read!🤗

[@MirandaMills]

That's so kind! So glad you enjoyed the discussion 😊❤️📚

[@maryh4650]

Your bookcase looks wonderful, your re organisation was worth the hard work. The flowers are beautiful. I loved as usual your discussion about the chosen book with your Mother and the other contributers.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Mary! ❤️

[@moweaquas]

You two always add new views about books that I thought I knew. Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so glad you found our discussion informative. Thank you so much again ❤️

[@suzannegagne8692]

Let me be the first to say nice to see you both and sense and sensibility is my favourite Jane Austin book.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you! So glad it’s a favourite of yours 😊

[@emily_robinson]

My aunt introduced me to Jane Austen years ago with the 1995 "Sense and Sensibility" film, and it became the first novel of hers that I read as well. Upon rereading and watching, I still feel this novel is my favorite of Austen's. What a nice discussion today. Thank you!

[@MirandaMills]

You're so welcome, Emily! So happy you enjoyed it. I love that version too. It's one of the best Jane Austen films I think ❤️🎥 📖

[@30north90west]

I loved the comments about the leaves. Another well known author paid attention to dead leaves. Sonnet # 73. Dead leaves made sublime by inspired artists!

[@lafarmhouse]

love the recipe❤❤❤ thank you

[@skyy3123]

Thank you for the great conversation!

[@debbiew7496]

Although I have watched the movie “Sense and Sensibility” multiple times, this was my first read of the book. It will not be the last time! Thank you for choosing it for the book club and inspiring me to read it.

[@Bonnie-gc2zu]

I always so enjoy the in-depth analysis of and discussions about the wonderful books you choose for the CBC, and I absolutely love to watch the two of you laughing and riffing off one another's insight's and opinions. Also - a little bit off-topic - per your glowing (no pun intended) recommendation, Miranda, I purchased a Serious Readers floor lamp, which arrived today. Absolutely marvelous - worth every penny.

[@MirandaMills]

Oh, that's wonderful, Bonnie! I truly love my Serious Readers light and am very happy you're delighted with yours too. I'm so pleased the Comfort Book Club discussions resonate with you. We have a lot of fun doing the videos ❤️📚

[@stacey__withanE]

I'm so thrilled to be reading along with you and your Mum every month. Jane Austen is the most comforting of comfort reads for me, and it was so nice to revisit Sense & Sensibility with you both, and hear your thoughts. I have also been reading the CBC backlist and really enjoyed reading The Enchanted April this month as well! Look forward to your newsletter on Sunday, fruit cake is my Dad's favourite so I know who I'll be sharing cake with :)

[@MirandaMills]

That's wonderful to hear, Stacey! Thank you so much for your very kind support too. I really appreciate it and hope you'll enjoy the CBC backlist and The Blue Castle next month (and the cake with your Dad when you make it!) ❤️📚

[@jasonlow8029]

Hello Miranda, As always, thank you for a wonderful and in-depth discussion. I am looking forward to reading The Blue Castle (a new read for me). Have a relaxing weekend. Best wishes, Jason 🙂 📚 💟

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your contribution, Jason! Hope you enjoy The Blue Castle and wishing you a relaxing weekend with plenty of reading time too ❤️📚

[@jasonlow8029]

@Miranda Mills Thanks, Miranda. I am on chapter 4 and loving the book! And, I found a vintage Penguin edition of another book that I have been searching for the longest time. So it's a good bookish start to the weekend. I hope you will also have a great weekend ahead. Best wishes always, Jason 💟📚

[@DianeC1975]

Great discussion. Enjoyed listening to everyones comments. Thank you! 👍📚🤗💕💕

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it, Diane! xxx

[@teresaparkins1255]

Thank you Miranda and Donna for another great book club choice. I do agree that this re-read brought some different insights and a deeper appreciation of Jane Austen's clever investigations into character. I enjoyed hearing the thoughts of those who sent in voice messages. I am looking forward to trying the fruit cake recipe too. 📚

[@MirandaMills]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Teresa! Jane Austen is indeed a very clever writer 😊❤️📚

[@mhairigilchrist9792]

Another lovely episode, thoroughly enjoyed hearing all the comments and discussion of the characters. Sometimes I think we're a mixture of Elinor and Marianne, ( or I am 😅) Had a senior lady moment trying to comment on your Instagram story, it appears I missed and commented on an advert! 🤭 Lovely to see you and your Mum together ❤

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Mhairi! I'm so happy you enjoyed the video! I think JA would agree that we all should at least try to have a sensible amounts of both sense and sensibility😂❤️

[@shonnarobertson6462]

Sense and Sensibility was the second Austen I read when I was a teenager and I have enjoyed rereading it every few years ever since. I always find something new in it every time I reread it, probably because as I age different issues become more important! I really enjoyed this Comfort Bookclub discussion, thank you for such a wide ranging analysis! I’m currently up to Marianne’s illness in my current reread, and enjoying the lovely ‘gothic’ vibes of that section of the book.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your comment, Shonna! Yes, mum and I both found different aspects highlighted for us this time too. Jane Austen's novels really yield so much on every read: I can completely empathize with returning to Sense and Sensibility every few years. Enjoy the rest of your reread! ❤️📚

[@ingertsvard6731]

A lovely book and for the first time I listened to it in English! Happy that the comfort Bookclub “force” me to reread lovely Austen in English. Thank u Donna and Miranda.

[@MirandaMills]

That's wonderful to hear, Ingert! I'm delighted you enjoyed listening to the audio version in English this time! ❤️ 🎧

[@sherrirabinowitz4618]

I was going to leave a message, but life got a bit complicated for me. I have been thinking about Brandon and Marianne. I think they are well suited, and that Marianne realized it after her illness, that not only did he love her, but he understood her very well. He also shared her love of music and poetry. And in the end, he read very well unlike poor Edward. Also, I think Brandon and Elinore would have been too alike, they liked each other but I think how very alike means that, they are not a couple, but they are meant to be perfect in-laws. I also have a funny story about Fanny and John Dashwood. The year that Sense and Sensibility came out it was right around the US Football Superbowl. I invited my mom to come to see the movie with me. (My brother and Father would be happily occupied with football and snacks.) I had read the book, but Mom hadn't, and she was looking forward to the movie. The movie started with that brilliant sequence at the beginning with the brilliant actors Harriet Walters and James Fleet. Everyone around us were laughing, my mom and I were really enjoying it so very much. But a couple behind us were complaining loudly about how unchristian the couple was and how dare they. They actually got up and left, Mom whispered, "didn't they know it was a comedy?" I whispered back, "Apparently not." The Lady next to me said, "I doubt they didn't know; they just have no sense of humor." So, we enjoyed the movie thoroughly and it was my mom's first Austen, she ended up watching Pride and Prejudice when I got it on sale from Barnes and Noble the next year and loved it. All the way home there was two subjects that we both really talked a lot about. Why the couple did not understand that it was comedy romance, not a serious drama. And my subject was, why does Brandon sound so familiar. Suddenly at a stoplight I said very loudly, "Robin Hood!" I scared mom and I apologized saying I finally figured out where I had seen him before, but he was so unrecognizable I had no idea, Robin Hood and The Prince of Thieves, he played the Sherrif of Nottingham. I just thought I would share the memory. Thank you for picking this, I so miss my mom, and this brought me some happy memories.

[@MirandaMills]

I'm so happy you enjoyed the video, Sherri, and thank you for sharing your own story of watching the film and the misunderstanding of Austen's sense of humour from the couple behind you. I am so pleased to hear the discussion brought back happy memories of sharing Jane Austen with your Mum! ❤️📚

[@maries3000]

Thank you for a really interesting discussion of Sense & Sensibility. I’m looking forward to hearing more about the longer read next month.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Marie! ❤️📚

[@creationspast.janebowell1903]

Hello ! I am a trifle late to this vlog but I did print out your fruit cake and plan to make it this weekend. Thank you for the discussion on Sense and Sensibility that too was a real treat.

[@MyMidnight1111]

So enjoyed this book. I had to watch the mini series afterwards. Thank you Miranda and Donna. Looking forward to next months book.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Belinda! ❤️📚

[@faithbooks7906]

This is such a great review of S&S! I really appreciated all the insight!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you very much - I'm so happy you enjoyed the discussion ❤️📚

[@kategoman2969]

Great review! I want to reread Sense and Sensibility now. Love your cosy book room.

[@DianeRiches-by6xb]

Thank you both for encouraging me to read my first Jane Austin novel and I really enjoyed it 😊

[@MirandaMills]

That's lovely to read, Diane! I'm so glad you enjoyed it 😊❤️

[@nancyfritz1827]

Thank you Miranda, Donna and Comfort Book Club members for your insights - as always your thoughts have increased my appreciation of the novel. I intentionally reread Sense and Sensibility very slowly (a chapter per day) as I wanted to relish Jane Austen's language and didn't want to miss any nuances in her writing. How lovely it has been to start my days with a cup of coffee and twenty or so minutes of Jane Austen and Elinor Dashwood (a favorite along with Anne Elliot). Your fruitcake looks just delicious and I look forward to your recipe, Donna.💕

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your kind words, Nancy! That sounds a wonderful way to me to start your day, and like you, Anne and Elinor are two of my favourite Jane Austen heroines ❤️📚

[@lindaklinedinst9236]

Hi Miranda and Donna I signed up for your Newsletter Miranda. I read Sense and Sensibility long time ago. I did enjoy this book. Take Care & Happy Reading ❤️🤗📚🔰❤️

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Linda. I hope you enjoy it ❤️

[@anitaalfred2880]

Another great discussion! Looking forward to The Blue Castle which will be a first time read for me. Super excited for it since it is a LM Montgomery!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Anita! ❤️

[@janetsmith8566]

This was such a great discussion ladies! For myself, having read this book quite a few times, I have always ended up absolutely adoring Colonel Brandon! He would be the man for me. Even when I was very young I felt this way. Frankly I don’t feel Marianne deserves him and I wish he would’ve been with Eleanor! Edward also didn’t really deserve her although I did like Edward a great deal. But the last two times I listened to this book on audio my overwhelming favourite character was… Robert Ferrers! His speeches to his mother are beyond hilariously funny! And I have to replay them over and over. My dear madam! 😆

[@RiaJane6]

I have never read a Jane Austen book before. I wasn't sure if I would like them. I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed Sense & sensibility. I was rooting for Elinor and hoping she got a happy ending. Thank you for giving me the push to try one of Jane Austen's books. Any recommendations for which of her books to read next?

[@MirandaMills]

You're so welcome! I'm delighted you enjoyed your first Jane Austen read! I love them all, but Pride and Prejudice is such a classic and a wonderful read ❤️📚

[@RiaJane6]

@@MirandaMills Thank you. I'll read that one next

[@Bonnie-gc2zu]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

That's so kind of you ,Bonnie! Thank you so much for your support and kind words. I really appreciate your generosity ❤️📚

[@purplesunflower8242]

Hiya Donna looking very well.

[@librarian1701-D]

Marianne and her idea of second attachments, also marries 'her' second attachment!

[@quietlife7186]

❤❤❤

[@peterconetta399]

Mostly I read non-fiction but have read one Jane Austen novel Emma. Although I have not read book the movie version of Sense and Sensibility, with Kate Winslet, I think is quite good. Thanks for another entertaining and informative video.

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, I really enjoy that film version of Sense and Sensibility too

[@ingaurban404]

Dear Miranda and Donna, thank you so much for this bookclub discussion. I loved to listen to your analysis and was looking forward to it, because I was curious to hear what you would say. I have to admit that Sense and Sensibility is not my favourite novel of Jane Austen by far for various reasons, but your discussion gave me different points of view. I have only read it twice and I always have difficulties with the horrible behaviour of Mrs.Jennings towards Eleanor and also with the nasty behaviour of Lucy Steele. It makes me wanting to cry out loud and I can hardly endure Eleanor's restraint. Therefore it was good to hear your opinions. I'm sure I'll read it again soon and try to be less emotionally involved when it comes to Mrs.Jennings and Lucy. Thank you for everything you do and have a lovely weekend.❤

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Inga! I'm so happy the discussion led you to think more about your own reactions to Sense and Sensibility, and I hope the next time you read it, you feel the portrayal of Mrs Jennings is a more rounded one. It's very hard to feel any sympathy for spiteful Lucy Steele though, but at least her own cupidity frees Edward to marry Elinor in the end ❤️📚

[@janetsmith8566]

I’m glad there was a little discussion about Marianne not being such an ideal heroine. Making of course Eleanor the better of the two. But may I go much much further and say that, although Jane Austen labelled Emma as a character that no one would like but herself, I feel that should’ve been her description of Marianne as far as I am concerned! I find Emma a far far better and nicer and even more interesting character than Marianne, who is so almost… Boringly self-centred that when she is ill I almost feel like I want to say “well good riddance!” And let’s go back to Elinore and Colonel Brandon! I think many apologies are owed to Emma in my view…. 💕

[@marty9011]

While certainly a good book, Sense and Sensibility is my least favourite Jane Austen book. This is mainly due to Edward, such a weak hero compared to Darcy & Mr Knightley. Interesting discussion, especially about mothers & daughters.

[@MirandaMills]

Glad you enjoyed it even though the book isn't a great favourite of yours, Marty. ❤️📚

[@ayseataaySquitieri0634]

Thank you very much for the video that is good for the eyes and soul, we wish you health and happiness. ( l read this book every year, it's so good) ❤️🫶🩵

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, and sending you every best wish too ❤️📚

[@lindakirisits370]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much, Linda for your kind support. It means a lot to me to have it ❤️📚

[@christinalinklater7742]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your lovely support, Christina! I really appreciate it ❤️

[@reginalemoine5809]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your very kind support, Regina! I so appreciate your generosity ❤️💐

[@marymartinick690]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your amazing support, Mary! It's so very kind of you, and I really appreciate it ❤️

[@moweaquas]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so very much for your very generous support. I really appreciate your kindness ❤️📚

[@moweaquas]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much again. It's incredibly generous of you to be so supportive ❤️💐

[@cathyspratling4254]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Cathy for your generous support! I so appreciate your kindness ❤️📚

[@cathyspratling4254]

@@MirandaMills Your welcome! I love your content & book recommendations ❤ I'm reading The Blue Castle. Have a cheerful weekend xo