Book of Ages opens wide the eighteenth century through a narrow subject. Jane Franklin, sister to the famous Benjamin, comes to life through Lepore’s compassionate and humorous prose. This is the biography of a common and fascinating woman, but one whose life was not considered worthy of a historical biography in her own time. In Book of Ages, Lepore asks not only what it means to write history today but what it meant for Jane. Jane Franklin lived in an age when the newly created novel was considered the truest form of history for the common people. So a biography for Jane Franklin? Her contemporaries would be stunned. We are pleased and thankful. Lepore’s writing is thoughtful, engaging, and often funny. Truly enjoyable are the guest appearances from Jane Austen, Lady Jane Grey, Virginia Wolf, and even the infamous Jared Sparks.
–Ruby, Annie Bloom’s Books, Portland, OR
If you’re ready to get to know Miss Franklin better, visit Annie Bloom’s or your local independent bookstore.