Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte – Folio Society Edition Review

Reviewed by Joy Wright

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte is a classic Gothic romance novel with a smattering of social commentary that has truly stood the test of time. A classic like this gives many opportunities for reprints, few as lovely as this Folio Society Edition however. On the page this novel is a masterpiece that captures the imagination and touches the reader in ways that few other novels can. By the cover this is an eye catching and collectable classic.

This Folio Society edition of Jane Eyre is a beautiful book which feels in keeping with the elegance of the time of Jane Eyre and the society through which she moves. This is a slip cased book with a stunningly artistic cover for the 512 pages inside. There are nine colour illustrations throughout, a rare treat in a classic. It feels decadent and luxurious, a book to care for and to display for it’s beauty.

Folio editions are beautifully crafted, generally feature bindings which are especially designed just for that particular book. They’ll often display artist-commissioned illustrations. Sometimes there could be artworks which are carefully researched for their true associations with the work, or even photographs where they are available. Each with their own slipcase they are meant to stand the test of time, and the love of literature.

The story follows the life of the titular character, Jane Eyre, as she navigates the challenges and difficulties of life in 19th century England. Jane is an orphan who is mistreated by her relatives and sent to a harsh boarding school, but despite her difficult circumstances, she remains stoic, steadfast and determined to make something of herself.
The novel is a beautiful and powerful exploration of themes such as love and loss, independence, and societal expectations. Jane is a relatable and inspiring character who shows that strength and perseverance can overcome even the most difficult of circumstances.

Jane Eyre is beautifully written, with outstanding descriptive prose, typical of the Bronte’s, that transports the reader into the world of the characters. They are rich and complex, with motivations that are both compelling and often quite believable. Jane Eyre is a novel that has touched the hearts of readers for over a century, and for good reason. It is a beautiful and moving story that will leave you with a sense of hope and inspiration, perhaps you’ll feel like anything is possible.

It is a true masterpiece of English Literature, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful classic.

If you have a literary lover in your life, or you want to buy a special copy of a favourite novel, this would make a wonderful gift, a statement. One which will stand the test of time, just like Jane Eyre.

The Folio Society were kind enough to send a lovely notebook and bookish cloth bag along with the Jane Eyre which opened my eyes to a new avenue of gifting options for my literary friends. I recommend you take a look.

The Folio Society edition of Jane Eyre, introduced by Emma Donaghue and illustrated by Santiago Caruso, is exclusively available from foliosociety.com £49.95

Rating: 5/5