Jane Eyre is not waiting to be chosen. She chooses herself.

Dear Fellow Time-Traveler,

Jane Eyre made me feel the feels.

Forget what you know about 19th-century female characters playing the waiting game - whether they’re shy and sweet or full of witty comebacks, they’re still waiting to be chosen by a rich, handsome gentleman. Sorry, Austen fans, but this isn’t that kind of story.

Jane Eyre is the blueprint. There is no savior. Jane is - and must be - her own. What I love most about this book is how deeply it speaks to the idea of surviving on your own terms. She takes the road less traveled and refuses to settle, even after enduring pain, loneliness, and longing. Because when the offer finally comes, if it costs her peace or self-respect, she still walks away, armed with just resilience.

Jane doesn’t need to scream to be rebellious. She faces injustice, submits to hardship when she must, but never lets go of her integrity. Even when things are unbearably difficult, when there's no hope left, she remains anchored to what she knows to be right, not according to society or others’ approval, but according to her.

Despite a painful childhood and the kind of low self-esteem so many of us know too well, she somehow still sees her worth.

She’s vulnerable. She’s compassionate. She’s tempted. But she never loses sight of herself.

Jane Eyre isn’t just a classic. It’s a lesson in self-worth, and in knowing when to walk away. I envy her strength. I admire her clarity. I think she’s ahead of us.

Everyone (woman or man) should read this book at least once.

NINA

PS: The bookmark in the photo is part of my collection! You can find it in my shop if you fancy keeping your place in style!