A book that almost by itself created the myth of the Bronte's (so is said). Very fascinating and interesting historical biography. ( )

I absolutely adored this book, and I sank into the book as if I were sinking into the most comfortable of cushions.

I don't think it held many surprises for me, other than that her life was even more tragic and lonely than I'd imagined. My heart ached for her as she experienced so very many losses in her life.

It was obvious that Mrs. Gaskell was a fan of her work, and a friend. I enjoyed all the little personal observations and details so much! I also really enjoyed the snippets of Charlotte's personal correspondence. I felt that these helped give a bit of additional insight into what kind of person she was.

I feel I did gain a lot of insight into what made Charlotte Brontë tick; for instance, her reaction to the criticism of Jane Eyre, and how she came to write Shirley, (which I have yet to read! And I call myself a fan! *Hangs head in shame.*.) There were many times, though, that I was aware that Mrs. Gaskell was writing Ms. Brontë's life while wearing a pair of rose-colored glasses. That didn't bother me a bit, because I probably was reading it through the same pair of tinted glasses!

I will reiterate how much I loved this book! I'm sure I'll read it again in the future. It's the kind of book that I will be able to turn to again and again; each time gaining something new.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough! ( )

This is one of the best biographies I have ever read. Not too many reach the "classic" stage. ( )

Elizabeth Gaskell was a contemporary of Charlotte Bronte and a lively writer. This biography brings us very close to Charlotte Bronte. ( )

If you love Charlotte Bronte, you need to read this bio. Written by someone who knew the Bronte family personally and was a great writer herself. ( )

It`s said to be the best biography of Charlotte Bronte and her family written by her friend. Maybe it`s true, but it`s definitely not the best of biographies. Book seemed flat. I suppose its advantage is disadvantage at the same time. Elizabeth knew Charlotte and was able to get letters from other Charlotte`s friends and talk with people who had met her, but at the same time Elizabeth couldn`t or didn`t want to tell more things about Bronte family`s life `cause many people where still alive and couldn`t like what she could write. ( )

As friend of Bronte's, Gaskell wanted to capture the life and works of her friend in words. The biography became highly controversial and Gaskell was met with accusations of libel. However, the book remains a tribute to her dear friend and truly captures Charlotte's essence and dedication to her work. ( )

OK so Gaskell twisted facts a bit and didn't like Patrick, but this is still a very readable account of Charlotte's life, and interesting especially for what Gaskell chosses to alter. And what biographer doesn't have their own interpretation of a life? It's just another form of fiction, in some respects. ( )