Tanya Landman
Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre
Barrington Stoke, 2020
Paperback, 115 pages
9781781129128
Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel Jane Eyre has been adapted by Tanya Landman in the most refreshing and accessible manner. Designed for reluctant and dyslexic readers, this adaptation is perfect for young readers looking to explore literary classics in a uniquely refreshing form.
Jane Eyre has had a troubled childhood, from living with abusive relatives, to experiencing loss in a charitable school for orphans. But when she is presented with the opportunity to teach at the formidable Thornfield Hall, her life changes. She is haunted by Mr Rochester, the mysterious owner of Thornfield, uncertain of where she stands in their relationship. But something else haunts her in her new home, an eerie noise coming from the attic.
Landman does a remarkable job in this adaption. She encapsulates Brontë’s humour, wit, mystery and intrigue, all through clear expression and accessible dialogue. Not once is the plot of the original novel compromised, but rather condensed in an elegant manner through concise language that highlights the core of Brontë’s writing. This adaptation demonstrates an excellent opportunity for young readers to engage with the literary classic in an engaging format that expertly showcases the writing skills of both Brontë and Landman. It was a truly enjoyable experience to read this book.
Ruth Ennis
