Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey is a witty satire of Gothic novels following Catherine Morland, whose imagination has been shaped by too many Gothic romances. Through Catherine's visit to Northanger Abbey and her misreading of both Gothic mysteries and romantic intentions, Austen parodies popular fiction while creating a charming coming-of-age story. The novel becomes both literary satire and gentle romance, proving that Austen's humor extends to mocking literary conventions and that some heroines need to learn the difference between fiction and reality.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Austen wrote the perfect satire of Gothic novels while telling a sweet love story, showing how reading shapes expectations. This classic reminds us that Catherine's overactive imagination is endearing, that Henry Tilney is Austen's most playful hero, and that the novel is both parody and sincere romance.

DETAILS: • Author: Jane Austen • Publisher: Penguin Classics • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: April 29, 2003 • ISBN: 9780141439793 • Edition: Revised • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days