So. I am a big reader. I’m talking tickets to Bookcon since 2016, former bookstagrammer, 50+ books a year kind of reader. However… I haven’t read many classics. Sure, I’ve read a few growing up, in high school and occassionally by myself, but I do find I am a bit lacking in that area. I think I’ve read more adaptations of Jane Eyre than I’ve read actual classics… and once I read a book inspired by Anna Karenina, and I had to Google the original plot in the middle of the book (fun fact, it was a YA book and someone DIED??????)

So what’s my big confession? I’ve not read Jane Austen AT ALL.

In fact, I only ever saw Pride & Prejudice (2005) like, last June. It slapped, and I’d be down to watch it like, 600 more times. But ya know, I have trouble reading physical books anyway (thanks, ADHD) and I guess I hadn’t found the right narrator yet because I couldn’t get into it. And then, (the fire nation attacked—sorry, sorry, couldn’t miss the opportunity) one day, when I was driving to my sister-in-law’s house and Siri was on one, I clicked my Libby app, and P&P was on there. Apparently, I borrowed it in a half-asleep state or whatever.

The next bit requires the following context, so please note that my favorite book (and audiobook, which is extremely relevant) is My Lady Jane, written by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows. I read it every few years via audio or physical copy, highly recommend the show, and most of all, I adore the audiobook by Katherine Kellgren.

As I begin listening to Pride & Prejudice, settling myself in for a looooong traffic-filled ride, I find myself enjoying it wholeheartedly. In fact, the writing is great, but the narrator, she’s just incredible! And suddenly, she says the name ‘Jane’ in a particular way that strikes me, and I realize—the narrator of this version of P&P is none other than my audiobook icon Ms. Katherine Kellgren herself. Immediately, I am hooked. Kellgren could read the phone book and I’d be down, I am so for real, and if you haven’t heard her work, trust me, JUST DO IT. She was a queen, and I am so happy to experience this work of art in her voice.

Also, Pride and Prejudice is hilarious, and Mr. Darcy is literally a middle school girl. I’m in love with the whole thing. More later, but shoutout to Katherine Kellgren, the GOAT. This one’s for you, you legend. XO

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