The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet

Summary: Based on the award-winning Youtube Series The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, which is in turn based off the beloved classic Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet modernizes the classic story of Elizabeth and her sisters, neighbors, and family as they navigate the perils and pitfalls of growing up, falling in love, and learning not to judge a book by its cover...or a Darcy by his cover, in this case. In this adaptation, Lizzie Bennet is a graduate student living with her parents, and trying to figure out the direction of her life. Everything changes for her and her sisters Jane and Lydia when Bing Lee arrives in town, bringing along his stuck up friend William Darcy. Lizzie documents it all through her diary and her Youtube channel. 

Critical Evaluation: The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet is the perfect novel for any teen interested in classics, but hesitant about their language and sometimes outdated themes. Su and Rorick’s adaptation of Austen’s plot is phenomenal; it keeps the essential ideas of class struggle and incorrect first impressions, while updating the scenarios and characters to be fit for the modern era. One of the best examples of this is the character of Lydia, who in the original story almost brings shame to her family by running away unmarried with George Wickham. Here, she is instead faced with the horror of him threatening to release a sex tape to the public without her consent. Other issues such as financial struggle and internet fame are also touched upon. 

Aside from modernizing many of the scenarios, Su and Rorick also bring forth the strength of the female characters of the story in a way that may not be accessible to teen readers in the original novel. Lizzie is a grad student working to build her own company, Jane is advancing in her own career, and Lydia is much more than an embarrassing little sister, and instead experiences growth in a way Jane Austen may never have expected. Diversity of both sexuality and race are also introduced to the story. 

The diary format of the novel allows readers to feel closer to Elizabeth than they may have in other adaptations. The characterizations and dialogue, although occasionally a bit awkward, are perfect for teens new to Jane Austen or those who already know and love her works. While some of the lines, particularly those spoken by Darcy, seem a bit awkward and perhaps forced in an attempt to mirror the original novel, they are charming nonetheless, and teens will find this book a perfect companion to the Youtube Series and Pride and Prejudice itself. Without losing the integrity of Austen’s original story, Su and Rorick introduce Lizzie and Darcy to a whole new generation of teens in a way that is relatable and relevant. 

Reader’s Annotation: The story of Pride and Prejudice is well loved by many...but what would happen if Lizzie Bennet herself had a Youtube channel, Darcy owned a video production company, and Mr. Collins was...well, as persistent as ever? Curious readers can delve into The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet to find out!