by Anne Bronte
Edition: Modern Library classics, paperback.
Overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars
{let me know if there are typos or anything}
After her father's speculation leaves them in near-poverty, Agnes Grey is determined to leave her quiet life at home and become a governess, earning her own living and hoping to help allay her father's fear for his children's future. Her idea of heroic perseverance and independence is soon eclipsed, however, by the almost impossible task of teaching her first pupils, whose chaotic and rebellious behaviour goes unchecked by their parents. As the years go by, Agnes works hard to try to keep her jobs, but finds herself growing more and more miserable in the friendless life she leads...until she meets Mr Weston, a plain but kind young clergyman.
My thoughts: This was a really, really good read. I wasn't sure if I would like it or not, but it definitely lived up to everyone's positive reviews, as well as to the expectations you might have if you're a Bronte fan, like me. It doesn't matter if you're a girl or a guy; I'd recommend this book to just about anyone who likes classics!
Although the story is very similar to Charlotte Bronte's stories, this book still has a slightly different tone to it; and I think it is an important read for anyone interested in the Victorian era, because of its authentic depiction of a governess's life. I had no idea how difficult it really was until I read this book. This book has you look at the era and its people in a slightly different light--much like the perspective found in Jane Eyre, but in a more realistic setting.
The characters were good. I liked Agnes Grey a lot; she's the kind of heroine that you feel you can really understand, and the kind of character you keep hoping will have a happy ending. Mr Weston was nice, too. Most of the pupils were downright scary, and their parents weren't much better....
The story wasn't as dramatic as other Bronte books, but it was certainly interesting; and again, it seemed pretty realistic, almost like a real memoir. The writing style, by the way, is easier than Charlotte's. It's also not quite as gloomy as Villette or Wuthering Heights, so it would be a good Bronte book to start with. Highly recommended. :)
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