Okay, well, maybe I’d draw the line at toddlers.  But I have given both of my children the Pride and Prejudice graphic novel by Nancy Butler and they have loved it.  The graphic novel retains much of the language from Austen’s original, but even my ten-year-old (who, admittedly, in my unbiased opinion is a genius :)), had no trouble with the plot.  However,  I tend to focus on the story’s romance, while my son relishes the humor (since, naturally, romance doesn’t interest him).  His reactions help me remember how incredibly funny characters like Mr. Collins are.  After a while, I have gotten so used to some of the absurdities in the story that I begin to forget Austen’s satirical edge.  It’s great to see Austen through fresh eyes! 

Now, my children and I are watching the 1995 miniseries version of P&P and we’re really enjoying viewing it together.  My daughter (also a genius :)) has seen it before, but is just as entertained as my son, who is seeing it for the first time.  I honestly don’t know how many times I’ve seen it, but watching it with my children has been a revelation.  Truly Austen is an author for all ages!