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How was this classic book/film series? Which character was your favorite? How did you like the book's setting? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

I loved the mini-series, mostly the first one. The second was a bit depressing. Miss Mattie was my favorite character. Judi Dench usually plays such strong female roles that it was a nice change to see her as sweet, lovable Mattie. This mini-series has an all-star A-list cast. I think the only one missing is Maggie Smith! Julia Sawalha is unrecognizable as Jessie Brown, Michael Gambon impressed me more than he did in Harry Potter, and Jim Carter and Michelle Dockery of Downton Abbey also appear.

I was rather surprised at the attitude towards the tenants on Lady Ludlow's estate. She seemed very harsh and uncaring about the little boy at first. It was obvious to the modern watcher that her son was never going to come through for her and do his duty. (view spoiler)[ He chooses to live in Italy, that's a huge clue he's not mainstream. He COULD do his duty anyway and marry and try to get an heir and I think that's what she expected regardless of his proclivities. (hide spoiler)]

My absolute favorite moments when I nearly died laughing involved animals. I also liked learning the history of illness and medicine, oh and how to eat an orange if you're a lady! It's little details that stand out to me.

I know I read some of the stories but I don't think I finished reading them. They are on my to-read list though.

This is no time for sport, there is lace at stake!

Between the cow in pajamas, and the "birdcage", this show is hilarious. Judi Dench as Miss Mattie is of course the standout character, but I loved Imelda Staunton as Miss Pole. I always love Michael Gambon, Claudie Blakley, and Jim Carter - Mr Carson from Downton. And a young Tom Hiddleston, and you can't help but feel sorry Simon Wood's - Mr Bingley from Pride and Prejudice - Dr Harrison.

I read the book Cranford in high school, but honestly I don't remember it as well. I might have to reread it someday. I never have gotten to the Cranford tales that comprise the second book, but I know the two series were heavily based of it as well.

Marie wrote: "Between the cow in pajamas, and the "birdcage", this show is hilarious. Judi Dench as Miss Mattie is of course the standout character, but I loved Imelda Staunton as Miss Pole"

I agree 100%. Imelda Staunton is always great with the exception of Dolores Umbridge. I didn't get that casting choice. The cow in pajamas had me in stitches. I love animals so I can totally see myself acting the same way and trying to save Bessie any way I could. There's something so charming about a community of middle-aged spinsters. I AM one by Victorian standards so maybe that's why the idea appeals to me.