Was I crazy to expect a graphic novel kind of illustrated version of the book when I got the book?

Maybe.

My poor heart.

But then I fell in love with the cover and the pages.

Love the edition.

Thank you publisher for the copy.

The opening chapter of Sense and Sensibility is one of my favorite in all of Austen. I find her wit here to be so sharp. The reduction of expectations for the Dashwood family as they lose their property and much of their financial security, because of primogeniture, is described in a way that is actually quite scathing and revelatory of the estate’s new female doyenne.

There is much to delight in as readers observe Elinor and Marianne interact with each other and those around them. Suffice it to say, that each embodies one of the titular traits. A rereading of this novel is always welcome to me.

If you have not read S and S, I recommend it most highly. I especially want to draw you attention to this absolutely gorgeous edition of the book. It is surely true that there are many, many less expensive versions of the novel. That said, this enchantingly illustrated one will be adored by true Austen aficionados. The flowers throughout are just lovely. Consider making this one a gift for someone you know…maybe even yourself.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I love classics and was looking forward to reading this one, but I didn't realize it was on the NetGalley Shelf App. I can't read books on there. I prefer Kindle books, so I had to pass this one up, but I'm sure it was great!!

I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. This story is doubtless worthy of its high praise and this edition, in particular, reinforces that. The illustrations are dainty and beautifully done. They do not distract from the novel, rather enhance it and add to the character of the novel.

Beyond the typical concerns of beauty, personality, and character behavior while seeking for a marriage in 19th century England, there are three important elements in Sense and Sensibility. Indeed, what the Dashwood sisters seek—especially Elinor, who has more sophisticated tastes and is far more discriminating when it comes to men—is a man's judgment on literature and comprehension of natural beauty.
One of the novel's greatest aspects is the love sister connection. Good sibling connections melt my heart more than anything else. And Elinor and Marianne are completely committed to one other. Despite the fact that their personalities are diametrically opposed, their love and compassion for one another has no boundaries.
amazing book. i loved it so much

What a gorgeous version of Sense and Sensibility! With beautiful floral watercolors on each page, this would make the perfect gift for anyone - whether they are new to Jane Austen or already own a copy of the book. This would look lovely on anyone's coffee table or bookshelf.

This illustrated edition of Sense and Sensibility is a wonderful addition to the previous editions of Pride and Prejudice and Emma. These beloved classics are made even more beautiful with wonderful illustration that not only fits, but enhances the story. I am delighted to have found the illustrated books that remind me of my favorite childhood illustrations, and can enjoy as an adult. The watercolors of nature with beautiful colors interspersed throughout the text are evocative and just put a smile on my face. This delightful book, or the entire collection, would make a fantastic gift (or self-gift!).

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest revie.w.

What a gem of literature. As with Wuthering Heights, the best part of this edition is the margin illustrations. The flora and fauna very much draw you into the story. Stunning simply stunning

I’ve been meaning to revisit this classic story of Austen for some time and this beautiful edition has provided me with enough reason to pick it up. Even though I remember the storyline, I’m sorry to admit that I’ve forgotten its many charming moments and conversations; especially the struggle Dashwood family found themselves into and the love and disappointment unlucky sisters suffer from. Austen’s unique creations, destructions and reformations of human relationships are embellished with romantic twists and a handful of surprise elements; written in the most subtle, elegant and witty way possible. This time, I enjoyed Sense and Sensibility much more than the last time I read it, it’s possible to find something else every time you read it. I’ve been dying to get my hands on these special editions illustrated by Marjolein Bastin and I have to say I’m impressed with the floral theme, it majestically complements the story and doubles the reading pleasure with pastoral vibes. Definitely recommended for all Austen fans!

I read all Jane Austen’s novels a long time ago and absolutely adored them. Sense and Sensibility is my second favorite by her, and this addition is absolutely stunning! Loved the illustrations – what a great way to enhance the vibe of the book!

Jane Austen is an outstanding author, and her books are very fresh and you never want to put your book down. I definitely recommend it.

I will be giving feedback on the edition of Sense and Sensibility, not on the story, as far more experienced classics readers have already done so for a hundred years.

I also reviewed the sister copy of Wuthering Heights from the series, and I like this one a lot more. The colours used throughout are a lot more cohesive and romantic.

As with Wuthering Heights, the best part of this edition is the margin illustrations. The flora and fauna very much draw you into the story.

I do not like the font on the back cover, I almost mistook it for comic sans. I wish that the inner font had been carried through to the back, and also that it was simplified on the front. Three fonts is a bit much, especially for a classic.

The book description promises “Bastin’s series adds elaborately designed ephemera, such as four-color maps, letters, family trees, and sheet music.” And yet, there is not so much as a family tree featured in this book, or in Wuthering Heights, and that’s very disappointing, as I was looking forward to the story being enriched with these things.

Pro: The nameplate on the inside is a nice touch, because if anyone is paying $60 for a classic, they are probably never going to get rid of it and can personalize it as they please.

Con: No maps, family trees, or acknowledgments from the illustrator talking about why they chose this classic, or when their love for it began.

Of course who doesn’t know who Jane Austen! Sense sensibility is my favorite of her stunning life-changing books. Those who are new to her works, will be allured by the beautiful cover.
I will always recommend sense and Sensibility. 5/5

Jane Austen is an extraordinary author, and her books are very original and you never want to put your book down. I have watched the movie countless times, and read the book multiple times as well. I definitely recommend it.

The illustrations in this book are absolutely gorgeous. They don’t add much to the story, at least as far as depicting scenes or characters or anything, but it does provide nice decoration in the margins. I would definitely buy this to add to my bookshelf as a prettier edition of one of my favorites.

Pros: Although Sense and Sensibility is not my favorite Jane Austen novel, I love book sets. I would definitely buy this book as part of the beautifully illustrated set of the Marjolein Bastin Classics Series . . . either for myself or for a gift for a book-loving friend. I can't wait to see what other classics become part of this series. The floral illustrations in this book were very feminine, which I think matches well with the Dashwood sisters.

Cons: This is not a criticism of the book or the lovely illustrations but more of the books chosen as part of the series. I think Pride and Prejudice is already included, so I'd like to see some variety in authors . . . unless of course all of the Jane Austen novels will be included.

Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the opportunity to view this beautifully illustrated classic.

Can you get a cheaper copy of this story? Of course you can. It's in the public domain.

But if you are an Austen lover cultivating a home library, then this is a perfect addition. I've long been a fan of Bastin's beautiful illustrations, and they are sprinkled throughout this lovely book. I wish this were a physical copy of the ARC so I could fondle the paper and appreciate the binding.

This review is about this particular edition--the story itself has been reviewed for decades. It's my second-favorite Austen.