- Jane Austen was born in 1775 in Steventon, England and came from a family of eight children. She began writing at age 14 for her family's entertainment. - Austen is considered one of England's most famous novelists of the 19th century. She was known for using sarcasm and humor to portray important issues in her writing. - Two of Austen's most popular novels, Pride and Prejudice and Emma, are still widely read today. Pride and Prejudice was her most popular work during her lifetime.