I was supposed to read "Jane Eyre" for a class in college, but I was only able to read half-way through it. Ever since then, it has been my intention to read the whole thing some day.
About fan communities- I've always felt at home with anyone who is a Harry Potter fan. I know what you mean though about fandom- I think it is hard to find communities and to fit in at first. But the great thing about it is that in a particular fandom, everyone is a fan of what you like, and you can always talk about that, so it works out well. =)