If you’re searching for an entertaining and witty audiobook to add to your list, look no further than Curtis Sittenfeld’s “Eligible.” This modern retelling of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is sure to charm listeners with its captivating characters, amusing dialogue, and thoughtful exploration of contemporary love.
Key Takeaways:
- “Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfeld is a charming and witty audiobook that modernizes Jane Austen’s classic “Pride and Prejudice.”
- The narration enhances the listening experience with talented voice actors and well-delivered performances.
- The characters are well-developed and contribute to the overall story with their personalities, relationships, and growth.
- Curtis Sittenfeld’s writing style combines sharp dialogue, descriptive language, and well-paced narrative to create an engaging story.
- “Eligible” explores themes of societal expectations, love, and the challenges of modern relationships, making it a relevant and thought-provoking listen.
About the Author
Curtis Sittenfeld is an American author born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1975. She gained recognition for her debut novel, “Prep,” which was published in 2005 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller. Sittenfeld studied creative writing at Stanford University and the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, and her work has been featured in various national publications, including Time and The New Yorker.
Sittenfeld’s writing style is known for its honesty, wit, and sharp observations of modern society. She often explores themes of identity, sex, and relationships, and her novels have been praised for their relatability and authenticity. Sittenfeld has since published several other acclaimed books, including “American Wife” and “Sisterland.”
With “Eligible,” Sittenfeld brings her trademark humor and insight to a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” Fans of Austen and contemporary fiction alike will appreciate Sittenfeld’s fresh take on this classic story.
Book Summary
Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld is a modern-day retelling of Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice. The story is set in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the Bennet sisters reside. Liz and Jane Bennet, the eldest sisters, are in their late thirties and facing the pressure to settle down. The arrival of Chip Bingley, a charming doctor, and his haughty friend Fitzwilliam Darcy, throws their lives into turmoil.
As Liz navigates her tumultuous relationship with Darcy, she also grapples with the reality of her family’s financial woes and her own career prospects. Meanwhile, Jane falls for Chip but faces obstacles in their path to happiness.
Throughout the audiobook, Sittenfeld explores themes of family, love, class, and societal expectations with wit and humor. She infuses the story with engaging characters and captivating plot twists that will leave listeners rooting for Liz and Jane until the very end.
“Sittenfeld expertly updates and reimagines a beloved classic, breathing new life into the world of Pride and Prejudice.”
Characters
In “Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfeld, the characters are well defined and contribute to the overall story in unique ways. Liz and Jane, the two main protagonists, stand out with their different personalities and experiences. Liz is a successful journalist living in New York and represents a modern and independent woman while Jane is a yoga instructor, gentle and accommodating. The dynamics between the two sisters are heartwarming and real, and the conflicts they face make them all the more endearing.
On the other hand, the supporting characters are just as engaging, with their respective storylines adding depth to the overall narrative. Mrs. Bennet, the mother of Liz and Jane, is a hilarious and dramatic figure who at times steals the spotlight. Chip Bingley, a bachelor and a doctor, is charming and likable, but his friend Fitzwilliam Darcy comes off as rude and arrogant. As the story progresses, however, we witness the characters’ growth and development, making them more relatable and understandable.
Through the audiobook, the voice actors bring the characters to life with their performances. Their delivery perfectly captures the unique personalities of each character, making the listening experience all the more enjoyable.
Narration
One of the most notable aspects of the audiobook “Eligible” is the impressive narration by Cassandra Campbell and others. Campbell, in particular, does an excellent job of capturing the tone and emotion of the story, bringing the characters to life with her versatile voice.
“Campbell imbues the characters with personality and depth, making “Eligible” an even more engaging listen.”
The voice actors’ performances are especially impactful during dialogue-heavy scenes, as they effectively differentiate between each character’s voice, tone, and personality. This enhances the listening experience by making the story clearer and more immersive for the listener.
Overall, the talented narration by Cassandra Campbell and others is a major highlight of the “Eligible” audiobook, enhancing the story’s charm and wit.
Writing Style
One of the standout features of “Eligible” is Curtis Sittenfeld’s unique writing style. Through her use of dialogue, pacing, and descriptive language, Sittenfeld creates a captivating narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. The author’s writing style is particularly notable in the way she balances humor and heartbreak, creating a story that is both comedic and emotionally resonant.
At times, Sittenfeld employs a dry wit that is both insightful and witty. This style is exemplified in her portrayal of Liz Bennet, the strong-willed and independent protagonist of “Eligible.” Through Liz’s observations and interactions with the other well-developed characters, Sittenfeld’s writing captures the complexities of modern relationships in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Another hallmark of Sittenfeld’s writing style in “Eligible” is her pacing, which is both dynamic and well-balanced. The story moves forward at a brisk and engaging pace, but Sittenfeld never rushes her characters or the development of their relationships. Instead, she takes time to explore the complexities and nuances of their interactions, building anticipation and keeping listeners invested in the outcome.
Finally, Sittenfeld’s descriptive language is vivid and evocative, bringing the world of “Eligible” to life in the listener’s imagination. Her attention to detail, including the setting and characters’ appearances, creates a fully realized world that is both relatable and richly imagined.
“Sittenfeld’s prose is crisp and puts us immediately in an emotional world of dating and relationships.” – AudioFile magazine
Themes and Messages
In “Eligible,” Curtis Sittenfeld explores several underlying themes related to modern love and relationships. One of the prominent themes of the audiobook is societal expectations impacting love and marriage. Sittenfeld portrays the struggle of modern couples to balance external pressures with personal desires.
Love is another significant theme explored throughout the audiobook. From the earliest stages of infatuation to the complexities of long-term relationships, love takes many forms, and Sittenfeld highlights the different ways it can manifest in our lives. The audiobook also touches on the challenges that come with modern relationships, including the difficulties of navigating a fast-paced and dynamic world while maintaining a strong connection with our loved ones.
Overall, “Eligible” is a thought-provoking examination of the complicated nature of love and relationships in the 21st century. Sittenfeld’s exploration of these themes is subtle yet effective, leaving a lasting impression on listeners long after the audiobook concludes.
Memorable Moments
As the audiobook “Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfeld unfolds, listeners are treated to a variety of memorable scenes and twists that keep them hooked until the very end. One standout moment is when Jane and Liz discover their father’s financial troubles and try to come up with solutions. This scene showcases the sisters’ loyalty to each other and their determination to overcome adversity.
Another emotionally charged moment is Darcy’s confession of love to Liz, which is both unexpected and heartwarming. The well-written dialogue and expert narration make this moment unforgettable for listeners.
Finally, the wedding scene at the end of the book is another memorable moment. After all the obstacles and challenges the characters faced throughout the story, the wedding brings about a sense of resolution and happiness for all.
“Eligible” is packed with emotional moments and captivating twists that make it a must-listen for fans of modern romance.
Comparison to Other Works by Curtis Sittenfeld
Curtis Sittenfeld’s works are known for their sharp wit, deftly drawn characters, and insightful commentary on modern life. In comparison to her other works, “Eligible” stands out for its modern retelling of a classic literary romance, set against the backdrop of contemporary Cincinnati.
| Works by Curtis Sittenfeld | Similarities to “Eligible” | Differences from “Eligible” |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | Both novels feature well-drawn characters and explore themes of identity and self-discovery. | “Prep” is set in a boarding school and has a darker tone than the lighthearted romance of “Eligible.” |
| American Wife | Both feature strong female protagonists and examine the challenges of navigating complex relationships. | “American Wife” is a political novel, while “Eligible” is a contemporary romance with a focus on family dynamics. |
| Sisterland | Both novels explore the bonds between siblings and delve into issues of identity and family secrets. | “Sisterland” features a supernatural element, while “Eligible” is grounded in reality. |
“Eligible” may be different from some of Curtis Sittenfeld’s other works, but it still possesses her trademark wit, insight, and memorable characters that make her writing so engaging. This audiobook is a must-listen for fans of Sittenfeld’s other works or anyone looking for a contemporary spin on a beloved literary classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfeld makes for a delightful and engaging listen. Sittenfeld’s modern retelling of “Pride and Prejudice” is fresh and witty, offering a unique perspective on the timeless classic. The audiobook is expertly narrated, bringing the characters to life and enhancing the listening experience.
Sittenfeld’s writing style is accessible and relatable, making it easy to connect with the characters and the story. The themes of societal expectations, love, and relationships are explored in a thoughtful and thought-provoking way, making the audiobook both entertaining and insightful.
Overall, we highly recommend “Eligible” to anyone looking for a charming and well-crafted audiobook. Curtis Sittenfeld is a talented author, and “Eligible” is a standout addition to her impressive body of work.
So what are you waiting for? Add “Eligible” to your audiobook queue today and discover the joys of modern love!
FAQ
Can I listen to “Eligible” through an audiobook?
Yes, “Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfeld is available as an audiobook for your listening pleasure.
How long is the audiobook version of “Eligible”?
The runtime of the “Eligible” audiobook may vary depending on the edition, but on average, it is around 10 hours and 23 minutes.
Who are the voice actors for the “Eligible” audiobook?
The “Eligible” audiobook features talented voice actors who bring the characters to life, including [voice actor names].
Can I play the “Eligible” audiobook on my smartphone?
Absolutely! You can listen to the “Eligible” audiobook on your smartphone through various audiobook platforms and apps, such as [popular audiobook platforms].
Is “Eligible” suitable for all ages?
“Eligible” is primarily targeted toward adult readers and listeners due to its mature themes and content.
Are there any trigger warnings in the “Eligible” audiobook?
It is important to note that “Eligible” may contain content that some listeners may find triggering, such as discussions of relationships, societal expectations, and adult themes. Please exercise discretion while listening.
Can I listen to “Eligible” in languages other than English?
At the moment, the “Eligible” audiobook is primarily available in English and may not have official translations into other languages.
Does the “Eligible” audiobook include any bonus content?
The “Eligible” audiobook edition may include bonus content, such as author interviews or exclusive behind-the-scenes material. Please check the specific edition for more details.
Can I access the “Eligible” audiobook through a subscription service?
Yes, the “Eligible” audiobook is available on some subscription-based audiobook platforms, allowing you to access it as part of your subscription package.
How can I purchase or download the “Eligible” audiobook?
You can purchase or download the “Eligible” audiobook from various online retailers and audiobook platforms, including [popular audiobook retailers].
