Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Title: Anne of Green Gables

Author: L.M. Montgomery

Genre: Fiction YA

Series: Anne of Green Gables # 1

Publication: January 1, 1908, 320 pages

Source: Libby Library

Buy|AMAZON|B&N

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.

MY THOUGHTS

Every reader has either read or at least heard of the classic series Anne of Green Gables. Whenever someone mentions a beloved childhood book, you can be sure this series is among the favorites. After hearing about it for years, I finally decided to start the first book and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Written in 1908, the story still holds up beautifully more than a century later. I’m not sure if older adults were ever meant to be the target audience, but I found it utterly charming and the perfect change of pace from my usual fantasy novels.

Montgomery’s writing was simple yet elegant, and the world of Avonlea felt vibrant and immersive. Within the very first page, I was enchanted as Matthew and Marilla reluctantly set out to adopt Anne, an orphan. I loved getting a glimpse of how people might have lived in 1908. Life seemed simple and slow, but Anne infused everything with so much energy and joy. She was such a precocious child; open, honest, and unafraid to express her feelings.

It was fascinating to see how children grew up back then. I was astonished that by the age of seventeen or eighteen, they were already embarking on careers. I also adored all the supporting characters. Matthew and Marilla were so sweet, and it must have been a tremendous undertaking to take on the responsibility of raising a child at their stage in life. Even in the ordinary moments, school, chores, and everyday growing pains, there was never a dull moment.

I can absolutely understand why this series has been cherished for so long. I plan to continue reading the rest, and I can’t wait to discover what else lies ahead for Anne.