The Comfort Book Club / The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim

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Welcome to this month's Comfort Book Club discussion! My Mum, Donna, and I are chatting about April's book choice, 'The Enchanted April' by Elizabeth von Arnim. There are spoilers in this chat, as we're assuming you have read the book if you watch! Special thanks to the readers who left voicemail messages for this video, which were included in our discussion:
Faith in America
Diktynna in Great Britain
Jason in New Zealand
Heather in America
Cristina in Spain
Antoniette in Canada
Madeleine in France
Jenneth in South Africa
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SUBSCRIBE: If you enjoy this video, please consider subscribing to my youtube channel. I'd be thrilled! / mirandamills
SUPPORT: No pressure at all, but if you would like to support my work by making a donation to my channel, you can 'buy me a tea!': www.buymeacoffee.com/mirandam...
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BOOK CLUB: I host the Comfort Book Club with my Mum, Donna, and every month we pick a comforting read and discuss it on the last Friday of the month. Everyone is very welcome to read along with us. Learn more about #TheComfortBookClub (and find the list of upcoming reads) here: mirandasnotebook.com/the-comf...
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LINKS:
(affiliate links used for Blackwells)
The Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Arnim: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Elizabeth and Her German Garden by Elizabeth von Arnim: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Howard's End by E. M. Forster: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Emma by Jane Austen: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
My Instagram giveaway of Emma: / cc5hldhlftn

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28 апр 2022

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Комментарии : 92

@nancyfritz1827 2 года назад

I still remember sitting in the theater watching this film and feeling like a "spell" had been cast over me and when I walked out the world was so much more beautiful and I so much more joyful. Now the novel has also cast it's spell. Elizabeth von Armin's language is stunning and I found myself reading passages and whole chapters over and over just to enjoy her prose. Chapter 6 (Lottie's transformation) is my favorite and I think often of Lottie's insight into Heaven, "You don't try to be, or do. You simply are." Travel has always been transformative for me (especially trips I have taken solo) and at this time of little travel, this wonderful book has provided me the same gift. I loved this discussion and everyone's insights and comments. Both of you look so Springlike in your flowered tops. Thank you for a lovely bookclub!

@jasonlow8029 2 года назад

Hello Miranda (and Donna), thank you for including me in the discussion about 'The Enchanted April'. I loved hearing about all the new themes like the relevance to Woolf's Room of One's Own, and the generational meeting of minds. Being part of the CBC is one of the best things that has happened to me and my reading life! 📚 Thank you for all of your recommendations. Best wishes, Jason

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thank you so much for these very kind words, Jason! We really appreciate your support and thoughtful comments!

@helenrichards7866 Год назад

Miranda and Donna you will never know how medicinal you both are in my life right now. Your suggestions of reading matter and soothing voices are a panacea and diversion therapy from cancer. Never doubt that what you are doing is essential for many people. Thank you 💕

@MirandaMills Год назад

❤️❤️

@ingertsvard6731 2 года назад

Thank u so muck Donna and Miranda. This book was a really treat and I laughed out load many times when reading. 1920s is my favorite decade to read about so thank u so much for bringing this book to my attention.

@emily_robinson 2 года назад

I read "The Enchanted April" for the first time this month and so enjoyed it! I was on pins and needles when Frederick arrived and realized it was not in response to Rose's letter, and then such a great sigh of relief when Lotty and Caroline saved the day. Also, I felt like Rose in the beginning, annoyed by Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline coming early, claiming the best rooms and sitting room, and Mrs. Fisher acting as hostess. But then Lotty says something of not allowing such things to bother oneself in heaven. I watched the movie afterward and liked that also. And the way Mellersh didn't approve of Lotty buying flowers because it was an unnecessary extravagance, but also, how nice to buy flowers and bring a bit of enchantment into your home. Thank you for the discussion. I couldn't wait after finishing the book for Friday to arrive.

@WaterBearReads 2 года назад

I loved the video! This is actually the first time I have ever joined a book club like this...I read a lot of children's books because I love the "cozy" aspect to them, (and because I read aloud to my son a lot), but I find your book choices just wonderful! Thank You Miranda and Donna🌹

@eileennielsen5165 2 месяца назад

Presently reading, GREAT!

@angelajones129 2 года назад

Thank you Miranda & Donna for all your wonderful book recommendations, lovely videos, and vlogs. I'm enjoying your content so very much.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thank you so much! That is so kind of you! xxx

@Bonnieuxful 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna❣️I may have watched The Enchanted April movie at least 30 times❣️🥰💕I recently had the joy of attending the play in California which was so fun and had lots of funny moments as well❣️This story gives us a taste of what Heaven is like. God bless you both❣️🥰💕🙏🏻💕

@jennethgraser 2 года назад

How very special to share in this time with you all, thank you so much Miranda and Donna for this beautiful discussion and hearing all the ways this beloved book has impacted our lives and for including my voicenote. I look forward to reading your blog post! The Comfort Book Club brings so much joy. All the very best to you both 💗

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thanks so much Jenneth for your contribution to the discussion as well!

@joysedgwick812 2 года назад

Thank you for introducing me to this lovely, witty book. I enjoyed hearing your thoughts and also the recordings from around the world. Greetings fellow CBC readers.

@NadineTouzet 2 года назад

This was my first reading of The Enchanted April and it won’t be the last. I particularly liked the transformation of the women who at home were stuck in their worries and routines but after being in this marvellous place are transformed into different people. My favourite character has to be Mrs Wilkins. She’s a real trooper and always finds something positive about everything. And the garden! As I listened to the audiobook I could picture myself in such a garden, if only the Normandy climate allowed such luxuriant vegetation. Thank you for this pick!

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Nadine!

@karenoloughlin927 2 года назад

Miranda I live in Australia. There’s a podcast called Conversations with Richard Fidler that can be found on Apple/pocket casts others I’m sure. On the 19th January this year he interviewed an author Joyce Morgan on her book The Countess from Kirribilli, it’s a biography of Elizabeth von Arnim, the title of the episode is Searching for the Countess of Kirribilli. Lots of interesting information on Elizabeth and her life and writing. I’m sure you’ll love it and knowing there’s a recent book published about her, it only came out last July. Thanks for continually sharing wonderful reading material. Karen 💐

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

How interesting Karen! Thanks so much for letting us know!

@vanessap893 3 месяца назад

I have only recently read The Enchanted April and I loved it! It made me dream and it made me laugh. As a native Italian speaker, I found funny any mention of the language, from Mrs Fisher communicating in Dante's fashion to Mr Wilkins' bath accident and its link to the word "pericoloso" 😅 The CBC discussion was spot on, as always: there is something magical in the different, but at times similar, ways books speak to us reader. Thank you Miranda & Donna ❤

@moweaquas Год назад

I just read The Enchanted April in 2023 as you recently recommended it. I was not as enchanted as I expected. So I was glad to discover that you have a book club discussion on it. It helped me enjoy more of what I found excessive or silly. For me, none of the characters rung true and the men were particularly reprehensible, even at San Salvatore. But you’ve given me another way to look at it - especially with the connection to Mrs Dalloway and Eat, Pray, Love. Thanks for opening my eyes to the simple pleasures of von Armin’s writing. Her personal story filled in what I needed to understand.

@glendaslanina9939 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna. The Enchanted April was a delightful read and a perfect choice for spring. I enjoy hearing the different interpretations especially the ones that make me think. One thing that I took away has to do with attitude. Having worked with different ladies in the same office, it was always apparent that one’s daily attitude could influence everyone. Lotty was the influencer here. Her bright outlook and pure enjoyment brought out the best of the ladies by the end of the book. A lovely ending to a wonderful story.💕

@shanne6625 2 года назад

Comforting read. Wonderful discussion. I personally loved the comment about “searching for ghosts…” très poignant. Merci 🥀

@dmurphy42 2 года назад

TEA has been one my favorite books over the years and the film adaption was just beautiful. Over the years I have identified with different characters. It perfectly illustrates the maiden, mother, crone. Now in my crone years I’m reflecting differently again. A book full of gorgeous images, tender moments, and wit.

@suenicholls5446 2 года назад

😀💕xx thanks Miranda and Donna. Lovely vlog. My appetite has been well and truly whetted for my copy on order from my library.

@kerrylynn8366 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna, I was so pleased with reading along with you the “The Enchanted April” book. It was a delightful and warm book that I enjoyed it immensely. I’m so glad to add this to my bookcase 📕❤️

@zeeybooknook 2 года назад

I dont often join book clubs but it is always a pleasure watching you and Donna discuss books over treats. My tbr is always having new and unexpected additions after your seasonal rec videos too.

@bellathereader1328 2 года назад

Wonderful story! The landscape becomes a character. The characters grow and change. Quite lovely!💐🥰

@TheManseHen 2 года назад

As always thank you both for creating and broadcasting the comfort read book club. Donna, I especially love your shirt! Nothing like a nice crisp cotton! One thing I have always wished we still had, was the concept of a woman's club, such as is shown in the beginning of the film. (I have been listening to the book at bedtime and sometimes I doze off, I can't recall if Lottie and Rose were in the club setting in the book as well, I assume they were.) I assume they ran on a similar concept to the men's clubs of the day.

@staroliva6502 2 года назад

Dear Miranda and Donna. What a beautiful,happy book to read. First time reading it and it will be a reread from now on. What beautiful characters in The Enchanted April. San Salvatore seems the Holiday place, one would feel free and endlessly happy. Thank you Miranda for such a sweet April read you suggested. Miss you’re Tuesday’s videos.🌸🌷

@julierogers1155 2 года назад

Enchanted April has been my FAVORITE MOVIE since 1993 (?) when I saw it in a movie theater in Seattle Washington on a VERY rainy, dark, dreary day. Can you imagine?! It remains my favorite movie all these decades later. Thank you for picking out the book for your Comfort Book Club. I am struggling to complete BOTH my in-person longtime book club read and getting the Comfort Book Club book read too in the same month.

@faithwentworth7906 2 года назад

I hear you, Julie. There's never enough time to read everything you wish.

@berrycrimmins7281 2 года назад

Hi Miranda and Donna. It was my first time joining your book club. I only finished the book yesterday. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and felt I was actually there. It definitely takes you to Italy and that beautiful garden. I did not think it would end like it did, I was surprised and delighted. Thank you for choosing it.

@pamelapoet9 2 года назад

This was my first time reading Elizabeth von Arnim, and I am a fan. Her sensory descriptions of the natural world transport you straight to the heart of the San Salvatore Garden of Eden--without having to sweat your way up the hill to get there. She's so good at evoking that sense of excitement and transformation that traveling effects. Her wit, especially as a counterpoint to some of the darker insinuations, is wonderful, too. The book was a delight--thank you! As was the discussion. I especially enjoyed the Virginia Woolf talking points, as I had also been thinking, at different points in the novel, of "A Room of One's Own." Wishing you and Donna a weekend of beautiful weather, books and baked goodies! 🌷 🌼

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

I'm so happy to read this, Pamela! Thanks so much!

@bettymaugeri7316 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna - I love your spring outfits! I have not read the book yet but did see the movie - I hope that counts today.

@melaniek.7653 2 года назад

I am really looking forward to watch your video .The Enchanted April was such a wonderful read. I was thrilled to find out, that this month there was a special Enchanted April - inspired tea time in Victoria magazine! Thank you so much for this uplifting book recommendation, I will surely re-read it next year.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

I saw that too! Very fun. Hope you enjoy the discussion 💕

@diamondslashranch 2 года назад

I enjoyed this book so very much! Thank you for all the lovely books you have introduced me to.

@sheilaadams638 2 года назад

Wonderful video, Miranda and Donna! I so enjoyed reading this book and dreaming of Italy. I too found myself thinking of A Room of Ones Own as each lady wanted a room of their own and also, in Mrs. Fisher's case, a sitting room of her own, and in Lady Carolyn's case, a garden of her own. Looking forward to reading Emma now!

@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071 2 года назад

Thank you Miranda and Donna for this wonderful recommendation and for this lovely discussion. I feel honoured and grateful for being part of this cosy, elegant, warm and unique Book Club. I'm already absolutely hooked on Emma but in Summer I will reread The Enchanted April again because it's been so touching to me. Thank you for everything you do 🥰

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thank you so much too, Cristina. We always enjoy your thoughtful comments!

@mariacristinabuenoasensio3071 2 года назад

@@MirandaMills ohh THANK YOU 🥰

@maggie6512 2 года назад

I hadn't read this book prior to your recommendation, but really enjoyed it. Thank you for a lovely video.

@michelled.3849 2 года назад

You and your mum are so sweet together. It’s so lovely hearing and watching you discuss the story.

@chbronte582 2 года назад

Lovely discussion of the book, Miranda and Donna. I had read it many years ago but it has not been until this rereading that I have appreciated it so much, it has been a delight and a pleasure, it has become a favorite, for which I thank you for choosing it for the club. Happy weekend, the last of The Enchanted April 2022 xxx

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

That's wonderful that you liked the book even more this time!

@hyojinkim2370 2 года назад

I cannot wait to read this book! As soon as you mentioned it reminded you of the "only connect" quote from Howards End (my favorite literary quote of all time), I was sold. Thank you Miranda and Donna 💗

@sebtamgeospa 2 года назад

Thank you Miranda. Haven’t read the book yet but looking forward to it ❤️

@ruthb9403 2 года назад

Hello, this was a first read for me - I’d been saving it for April for ages and was very happy it was chosen for this month’s read. It really spoke to me at this point in my life and I found your link with Howard’s End (one of my favourite novels) and “Only connect” very apt- that is what stood out for me. After the pandemic, I’m at a time in my life to take stock and I think there are parallels between now and when this was written. I can see why people read this in hard times and I will choose to reread it in future when/if those times occur too. It invites and prompts you to consider what is important, gives hope in uncertain times and gives the impetus to make changes👍😍. Also, to trust my instinct. “Feel the fear and do it anyway!” I could see the link with Eat, Pray, Love too. Thank you for a great choice!

@tuppenceandbobneedlearts 2 года назад

Lovely video....I do enjoy them so much. This was a wonderful read. Such a truly charming book. I could "see" myself in that garden with those special people. Oh...to be able to have a San Salvatore of one's own. I have also seen the movie which is surprisingly true to the book with a couple small exceptions. I know this will become a book I return to again and again. Cheers from Canada.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

So glad you enjoyed it, Melanie!

@marybeth8788 2 года назад

Thank you Miranda and Donna for your lovely and thoughtful video. You both look lovely! I happened to read "The Enchanted April" for the first time this spring, without knowing it was your april book club choice. For me the book was really about the transforming power of beauty. Also that the beauty found in nature, the flowers, the trees, and even relationships are all signs and even the method through which the greatest love of all reaches us. The love of God and the sense of eternity that is mysteriously present in everything beautiful. Thank you to both of you.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

It's the perfect spring book I think, Mary Beth. So glad you enjoyed it too.

@ltlt5268 Год назад

I have to say I really enjoy watching the lovely lovely interaction between you and your mom. Such a beautiful mother daughter moment!

@susantatlow676 2 года назад

still waiting for the book from the library, but just saw the film on youtube, loved it, and looking forward to reading the book when it arrives on the reserved self at the library.

@AntonietteGaristo 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna, thank you so much for including my thoughts on “The Enchanted April” in your discussion. It was quite thrilling to be apart of a wider discourse and hear different perspectives on this special book. Such beautiful melding of minds and love of books! ♥️

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thank you so much for sending in your message, Antoniette! It's lovely to have your thoughts on the book!

@shelleyimmel8067 2 года назад

I loved this book. It was my first time to read and now I have ordered a paperback copy of it for my library. I read it as ebook. I rarely order paper copies of ebooks but this lovely book definitely is worth it. I can see myself rereading this book on a regular basis.🌷

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

I so agree TEA is a keeper, Shelley! So happy you enjoyed it too.

@lucybalt7312 2 года назад

Hi Miranda and Donna, I read The Enchanted April last year and really enjoyed it. It truly is a magical book. ❤️ As an avid gardener, I particularly loved the descriptions of the beautiful plants and flowers. Will definitely check out the audio book. Elizabeth and her German Garden is also on my wish list.

@spmoran4703 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna. I will look for this book with great joy. Books are a great joy for me. It was lovely being with all of you , a little group of book reading friends from all over the world . And I thought my book shelf was big, yours is almost a library.

@janebaily3758 2 года назад

I am new to your channel but I really enjoy it. Thank you very much.

@henriettanovember4733 2 года назад

This so very lovely! 🌷The Enchanted April never gets old however many times I reread it.

@sophiew6786 2 года назад

I always look forward to the discussion videos, and seeing what everyone thought. You and your mum both looked lovely! Thank you for creating such a wonderful space and have a lovely weekend ☺️

@rae_of_sunlight 2 года назад

A gorgeous book and a real favourite of mine 💛 What a joy to listen to this wonderful discussion about it; thank you both!

@rubyslippers8215 2 года назад

Hello, Miranda and Donna. I just discovered your lovely channel and your marvelous Comfort Book Club! "The Enchanted April" is one of my favorite films - I think I've almost worn out my DVD! While the film was remarkably faithful to the book, one major change I found interesting was the complete character alteration of Mr. Briggs. The film hones in on Mr. Briggs's vision impairment and how this enables him to "see" Lady Caroline as she truly is - not by appearance but through her inner self. I felt this really enhanced the connection between these two characters - something lacking in the Mr. Briggs of the book. For those who have read/seen both the book and the movie, what are your opinions of this character revision? I'm looking forward to rereading "Emma" - thanks again for providing such a wonderful place for peace, joy, and comfort in such unsettling times! It is greatly appreciated!

@sarahculley4646 Месяц назад

I have just ordered this book. I have heard so many good reviews for it. I cant wait to read it x

@christinalinklater7742 2 года назад

Utterly marvellous. Thank you, Donna and Miranda, and all of your astute readers. This was a moving and thoughtful exploration of the book and its themes. I particularly appreciated your reflections on love. I’m feeling a swelling of love for this community, and great delight at the prospect of sharing Emma!

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Glad you enjoyed it, Christina! I think Emma will be such a fun choice for TCBC!

@margueriteweaver7534 2 года назад

Miranda and Donna I enjoy these videos deep inside myself !!!!

@wangxiao2019 Год назад

I've read this book six months ago for the very first time and I became obsessed with her books Now I am reading " A solitary summer "

@yumiari2469 2 года назад

Thank you for recommending this book. It was very comforting and brought me so much joy. I enjoyed the discussion on this book and everyones opinion and I’m thrilled to know that there was a movie made as well. I can’t wait to read the next comfort book club pick, my favourite Jane Austen book- Emma. Thank you Miranda and Donna

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

You're so welcome, Yumi! We're looking forward to Emma as well!

@kathleencraine7335 2 года назад

Thank you for a wonderful discussion. The Enchanted April is one of my favorite books by one of my favorite authors. On this re-read one of the things that has remained with me is that being loving and kind can be infectious if we, like Mrs Wilkins, really believe in it. Our attitudes and interactions with those around us can make a positive difference. I'm hoping to be a little kinder and gentler after reading this book.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thanks so much for those kind words, Christina. I think Emma will be such a fun choice for TCBC!

@faithwentworth7906 2 года назад

Thank you for including my message, Miranda! How wonderful that this is a favorite book of so many participating in the CBC. Can't wait to read your blog post!

@Andihak 2 года назад

Faith I’m in Massachusetts as well! Would love to connect with you and chat about the comfort book club 🙂

@faithwentworth7906 2 года назад

Hi Andrea! Small world 😊 If I can find you on FB, I'll DM you with my email address. I'd love to connect with another CBC follower.

@teresaparkins1255 2 года назад

Dear Miranda and Donna, first my apologies for such a late response to this really interesting and insightful video. I found all the viewers messages were thought provoking and enjoyable. This re-reading of The Enchanted April had a very special meaning for me as it is the centenary year of my late father's birth (later in September) and when you chose it I knew it would make me think about the life of my Grandmother, Maude Elizabeth, who served in the Women's Royal Air Force (WRAF) and would have just been settled a couple of years into her married life in London when this book was written. I felt it made me closer to her to read about young women of her own age and I have a lovely photograph of her with her two sisters which helped my imagination when reading this delightful book. Thank you so much and I look forward to reading Emma again which is always such fun. Happy reading, Teresa 🌸📚🌸

@diktynnaw3447 2 года назад

Hello Miranda and Donna, Thank you for this very interesting discussion (and for including my message!). I was particularly struck, listening to the discussion about the contained, enchanted world of 'the' particular April and its offering of escapism and also transformation, about how that reflects the effects of reading a book such as The Enchanted April itself. I'm not sure I'm being very clear and maybe this idea was expressed in the discussion, but maybe visiting San Salvatore is von Arnim's metaphor for reading a book such as this. I hope you both have a lovely weekend.

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

Thank you so much for sending in your message, Diktynna! That's such an interesting reflection - by reading the book closely, I agree we also participate in and can be changed by the happenings of that particular fictional April!

@TheManseHen 2 года назад

At least in the states,(I don't know if the offerings are different abroad) the Audible Plus members Library has two editions to borrow, one read by Nadia May and one read by Eleanor Bron. I heard the Nadia May version and also found her reading to be very good. Now I want to listen to the Bron reading you enjoyed so much. I saw the film in a wonderful old art house theater when it first came out and it still remains in my top 20 films list. The actresses so embodied the characters in the book. This is one of the rare cases where I might be glad I saw the film first because I wouldn't want "my Lottie, or My Mrs Fisher etc" to be in competition with the fantastic enactments in the film.

@nicky_bee 2 года назад

Read along with you, loved it! 😊

@garyrobinson8665 Год назад

Hi Miranda. This book is on my tbr pile. I've just finished my first Von Arnim book The Caravaners. I really loved it. If you haven't read it I highly recommend it. Its a five star book in my opinion.

@MirandaMills Год назад

Yes, I have read it and really enjoyed it!

@vaniawhitfield6486 2 года назад

Thankyou

@Sherlika_Gregori 2 года назад

Miranda, did you read Vera by Von Arnim? If so, did you realise it’s similar to Rebecca?

@abigailhortencia5901 2 года назад

💕👌🏾

@TheManseHen 2 года назад

Question- more than once the book mentions Mr. Wilkins affectionately pinching his wife’s ear. I’ve never heard of this form of affection- is it like grandma’s wanting to squeeze their grand baby’s cheeks or? Is this a UK thing Or a 1920’s thing or???

@MirandaMills 2 года назад

I think it's just a Mr Wilkins thing, Susan!

@TheManseHen 2 года назад

@@MirandaMills good to know I wasn't just blanking on something that is commonly seen.