5 THINGS I LEARNED FROM PRIDE & PREJUDICE

Ever since I was a child, I have been an avid reader. I could hide away for hours at a time and make my way through book after book. Those works of literary art transported me to faraway places and different times, full of interesting characters who were always beckoning me to come along for the ride. My friend Belle always taught me books are full of adventures, far off places, daring sword fights, magic spells, and a prince is disguise. Who wouldn't want that?

I've been a fan of Jane Austen since my younger days. I remember watching the BBC version of Pride & Prejudice during my middle school years. It was on VHS and approximately five hours long. ;) That was when I first fell in love with Colin Firth. I mean, who doesn't love Colin Firth? Out of all of the Jane Austen classics, Pride & Prejudice has remained my favorite over the years. I love and appreciate the other stories, but Elizabeth and Darcy is where it's at. Amiright? I actually didn't read the book until within the past few years, and it was glorious! I don't care what anyone says, a book is always better than its movie. There is always something to take away from a book, and Austen's books definitely don't disappoint in that department. So today I'm sharing a few nuggets of wisdom I gleaned from this tale.

1 | Witty women are wonderful.
I sincerely appreciate someone with a dry and witty sense of humor because they understand me, and I feel like Elizabeth Bennett and I would have gotten along exceptionally well. Apart from the fact that we would have had to fight over Mr. Darcy. #awkward. That being said, I love conversations full of witty banter. The British have conquered the art of wit, which may be why I like them so much.

2 | Stand by your family.

Let's be honest. No one has the perfect family. And no matter what your family does or does not do, you stand by them and you support them. Like when Elizabeth's silly sister runs off with the infamous Mr. Wickham, she does all within her power to save her sister's name.  Really, Mr. Darcy is the hero of that story (again), but at least Elizabeth is concerned. Right?

3 | Both men and women can be equally stubborn.
Hence the "pride" and "prejudice". Enough said.

4 | Be fearless. 
I absolutely love Elizabeth Bennett's confidence. She knows who she is, she knows what she wants, and she isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Sure she has her moments, but she's a brave woman with a strong character. I want to be like that.

5 | Never settle.

Just don't. Mr. Collins is not worth it, ladies! I don't care if he'll save you and your family home. Run away and live with the kind forest animals before you'd ever settle for Mr. Collins. Also, he's your cousin, crazy. Ew. (Please tell me you read that in a Jimmy Fallon voice.) Know who you are and stick to your guns.

This adorable Pride & Prejudice swag is from the cutest little shop, Pemberley Pond.  The lovely Lalla and Luisa are offering my readers a 25% discount in their shop using the code RIVERSANDROADS. Their items would make for great gifts and stocking stuffers this holiday season! Perfect for that Jane Austen aficionado in your life!

Current Pride & Prejudice recommendation: Death Comes to Pemberley. It's a mini-series (two episodes) on PBS. I was completely hooked! Give it a go and tell me what you think!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AUSTEN CLASSIC?