Written by a young Jane Austen, 'Frederic and Elfrida' is a short story that beautifully showcases Austen as the original queen of wit. Penned at around the age of twelve, this is one of the earliest examples of her work ever to have been discovered. Austen's purpose was to entertain, and here, she certainly succeeded. A melodramatic story of two cousins who are to be wed and the theatrics of family, this story is perfect if you're looking for a lighthearted and funny read. This is an unpolished story from the mind of a girl destined to become one of the greatest female authors of all time and a wonderful example of the flare that Jane Austen had for storytelling. -