NOTE: This is a review of the annotation, not the novel itself! Annotated editions are a mixed bag. Ideally, they should clarify and enhance one's understanding of the novel without either getting bogged down in arcane detail, or inserting too much of the annotator's voice. The _Annotated Alice_ and the _Annotated Lolita_ are two outstanding examples, functioning as indispensable keys to complex "puzzle" novels. The _Annotated P&P_ isn't in that class. It is quite well organized, with chapter titles (created by Shapard) helpful maps, and a detailed chronology of all the events in the novel. The notes on class distinctions, etiquette and protocol, and legalisms (such as the infamous entail) are extremely useful, and Shapard also provides interesting insights into character development, and how speech patterns indicate class. (Lydia's vulgarisms and bad grammar, while less obvious to modern readers, clearly mark her as inferior). Yet there is a lot of repetition, (do we really need to have commonly used terms like "sensible", "wants" or "conscious" defined every time they appear?) and over-zealous explanations of terms most readers would likely figure out for themselves,(e.g.,loss of "virtue"). Shapard also tends to overexplain the characters' motivations. Still, a well crafted, well researched, yet very accessible guide, especially for Austen newbies.

This is an all time favorite for me. Oh, Mr. Darcy! And Elizabeth Bennett is the herione of all heriones!

i can 't return the book until this coming wednesday. sorry

Was required reading in an English class but I wasn't able to get into it until I saw the film adaptation with Keira Knightley. Once I did, I saw it in a whole new light. One experience where a film did a novel some justice.

Best book ever!!!!

As an English major, I've always felt like I needed to read this classic, but only now did I take the time to go through the whole unabridged book. The story of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy is interesting mainly as a look at antiquated social customs and views of social classes. A good book, even fun, although by now most people know how it goes and where it will end (happily, in marriage).

My rating is 5 stars plus. It is an excellent, great love story on a par with Romeo and Juliet. I read the book every year and watch the movie, with Colin Firth & Jennifer Ehle, time after time. It always holds the same fascination! Keah111

I've wanted to read theis for awhile... My friend has read the book and seen the movie

The best part is when the butler clues Elizabeth in.

Pride and Prejudice is a great book filled with fun and interesting characters and a great plot.