Title: Anne of Green Gables
Author: L. M. Montgomery
Publisher: L. C. Page
Genre: Classic, Coming-of-age novel
First Publication: 1908
Language: English
Major Characters: Marilla Cuthbert, Matthew Cuthbert, Diana Barry, Gilbert Blythe, Rachel Lynde, Anne Blythe, Anne Shirley
Setting Place: Avonlea, Prince Edward Island (Canada)
Theme: The conflict between imagination and expectation; sentimentality versus emotion
Narrator: Third Person
Book Summary: Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery
This heartwarming story has beckoned generations of readers into the special world of Green Gables, an old-fashioned farm outside a town called Avonlea. Anne Shirley, an eleven-year-old orphan, has arrived in this verdant corner of Prince Edward Island only to discover that the Cuthberts—elderly Matthew and his stern sister, Marilla—want to adopt a boy, not a feisty redheaded girl. But before they can send her back, Anne—who simply must have more scope for her imagination and a real home—wins them over completely.
A much-loved classic that explores all the vulnerability, expectations, and dreams of a child growing up, Anne of Green Gables is also a wonderful portrait of a time, a place, a family… and, most of all, love.
Book Review: Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery
Anne of Green Gables is the story of a young orphaned girl named, you guessed it, Anne. Born in Nova Scotia only to lose both of her parents from the fever at the age of three months, Anne has grown up in many households, never being able to stay in one place for long. As you can imagine, this has left young Anne feeling needy and unwanted.
And when siblings Marilla and Matthew decide to adopt a boy to help work on their farm, they never expect to get a girl instead. Naturally, their first instinct is to give her to someone else; but soon after, under the influence of Anne’s pleading, they decide that with them is where she shall stay.
“t’s been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will.
Anne is a funny child – she’s positive and hopeful and talkative. It’s impossible not to like her. As an adult reading this I understand Marilla because the child definitely was willful and up to getting into accidental mischief, although the beginning where they didn’t want her because she was a ‘useful boy’, it was just a shame of the times. I’m glad she was around to bring so much joy around to Avonlea, Marilla, Matthew and neighbors. When she amused them with her stories, she amused me at the same time.
Because when you are imagining, you might as well imagine something worth while.
Each chapter is divided into an incident or event, which worked well for this type of the story. Montgomery’s writing style is a delight, especially considering how old the book is. I can see why this classic has lasted through the ages. Through the afterword I found out how much it meant in particular countries for their hope after the war. Inspiring stuff.
One of the most remarkable things about Anne of Green Gables is the way it captures the beauty of nature and the wonder of childhood. The descriptions of the Prince Edward Island landscape are vivid and lush, transporting the reader to a simpler time and place. Anne’s character is also incredibly endearing, with her lively imagination and irrepressible spirit. Despite the challenges she faces, she never loses her sense of wonder and optimism.
Another highlight of the book is its exploration of friendship and family. Anne develops close relationships with the people around her, including her adoptive family, her classmates, and her neighbors. Through these connections, she learns the importance of forgiveness, empathy, and perseverance. The novel also portrays the power of community and the ways in which people can come together to support one another in times of need.
I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.
This book works so well because it takes an unconventional girl filled with hope and wonder in the world, a girl who loves Octobers, nature, beauty, kindred spirits and friends. One loyal and ambitious and full of daydreams. I think this calls to something in all of us, a type of hopeful wonder that the world is always beautiful despite whatever wrenches are thrown in the way. This isn’t the say Anne doesn’t have a funny, frightful temper or that she doesn’t hit with woes when warranted – actually she feels the intensity of lows as much as highs, making her a dramatic sort. This only makes her more endearing.
Overall, Anne of Green Gables is a charming and heartwarming novel that has stood the test of time. Its themes of love, friendship, and the joys of childhood continue to resonate with readers of all ages. Whether you are rediscovering the book or reading it for the first time, it is a delightful journey that is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.
