Paula Byrne je britská autorka a životopiskyně. Je vdaná za spisovatele Jonathana Batea, znalce Shakespeara.
A terrifically engaging and original biography about one of England's greatest novelists, and the glamorous, eccentric, debauched and ultimately tragic family that provided him with the most significant friendships of his life and inspired his masterpiece, `Brideshead Revisited'.
The critically acclaimed biography of beloved writer Jane Austen, as never seen before. Paula Byrne offers us the most intimate and revealing portrait yet of this distinguished and beloved novelist.
A TOP BOOK FOR 2024 IN: THE OBSERVER, INDEPENDENT, SUNDAY TIMES AND BOOKSELLER 'He understands only the women he invents – the others not at all'
'Captures both Barbara and her writing so miraculously' JILLY COOPER Picked as a Book to Look Forward to in 2021 by the Guardian, The Times and the Observer A Radio 4 Book of the Week, April 2021
'Hollywood, we're reminded, is after all a through-the-looking glass world, and Byrne writes authoritatively about its illusions and obscene, glittering excess ... Compelling' Daily Mail 'Both eye-poppingly fun and thought- provoking' The Times Madou is the most beautiful woman in the world.
'Hollywood, we're reminded, is after all a through-the-looking glass world, and Byrne writes authoritatively about its illusions and obscene, glittering excess ... Compelling' Daily Mail 'Both eye-poppingly fun and thought- provoking' The Times Madou is the most beautiful woman in the world.
The inspiration behind the powerful new film starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tom Wilkinson and Emily Watson, this is the story of Dido Belle, whose adoption by an aristocratic family challenged the conventions of 18th century England.
Perfect for fans of Jane Austen, this updated edition of Paula Byrne's debut includes new material exploring the history of Austen stage adaptations and their impact on her enduring popularity. Originally published in 2003 as Jane Austen and the Theatre, Byrne's first book was not widely available in the US and is now out of print. It examines Austen's passion for the stage—her involvement in amateur productions, frequent theater visits, and early works scripted in play form—highlighting how theatrical comedy influenced her stories. This edition features a new introduction and a chapter on the long history of Austen adaptations, showcasing the film industry's affection for her work, from A.A. Milne's 1944 radio portrayal of "Elizabeth Bennet" to recent adaptations like Love and Friendship. Austen's stories are often more recognized by their lead actors than by title, with notable versions including Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility and Carey Mulligan's Northanger Abbey. Byrne also explores successful spin-offs like Clueless, challenging the perception of Austen as a prim figure and revealing her as a woman of wild comedy and outrageous behavior. This book appeals to both devoted fans and newcomers, demonstrating why Austen continues to resonate with audiences today.
