Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Classic Coming Of Age
Available On: Amazon (I have the Seasons Edition & Wordsworth Collection
Ah, Anne of Green Gables, a tale that’s etched into my very soul. I’ll confess, dear reader, that this gem of a novel was more than a mere story to me during my tender years. It was a childhood favourite that I read and re-read so many times that I learned the story by heart. I was SO excited when this book was featured in the Autumn set of the Seasons Editions from Thomas Nelson; I was quite happy buying it again even though I already had a Wordsworth copy! I couldn’t help but go full-autumnal when I took the photo for the blog, even though technically we’re still in summer.
Autumn is my favourite season. And to be honest this book takes me back to childhood autumns curled up in the reading chair in the lounge, a woodland of orange and red leaves outside the window. It was SO apt that it came out as part of the Autumn collection. I remember losing myself in the vibrant world of Green Gables, a place filled with beauty and grace, and feeling an undeniable kinship with the fiery and imaginative Anne Shirley. Her indomitable spirit and boundless creativity inspired me then, and they continue to do so now.
Imagine my delight when, years later, while exploring Netflix, I stumbled upon Anne With An E. The sight of it awakened memories of a past long gone, and I realised, with a twinge of nostalgia, that I’d not read this masterpiece in years. Naturally, I had to rectify this oversight immediately.
Upon re-reading, the magic was as palpable as ever. Lucy Maud Montgomery’s delicate prose, as captivating as a sunset over the ocean, took me back to a place I’d never truly left. Anne’s relationships, her trials and tribulations, her unabashed love for life – all were there, waiting for me like old friends.
The TV series, though somewhat divergent from the original, succeeded in its own way. It breathed life into Anne’s world and brought her unique charm to the screen. For those like myself, who’ve cherished this story, it’s a pleasant sojourn, even if not without its differences.
Anne of Green Gables is a timeless tale that transcends generations. It resonates as much now as it did in my youth. This re-read affirmed my belief that some stories never grow old; they merely wait, like the blossoms in spring, to enchant us anew.
Charm and Beauty
The story of Anne of Green Gables revolves around Anne Shirley, an orphan girl with fiery red hair and an imagination that knows no bounds – honestly, it’s not difficult to figure out why I related to this one so strongly! Anne is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, siblings who intended to adopt a boy to help with their farm in the fictional community of Avonlea on Canada’s Prince Edward Island. Anne’s vitality and unbridled spirit win their hearts and those of everyone she meets.
What makes this story truly remarkable is not merely its plot, but how it’s told. Lucy Maud Montgomery’s writing style is lush and poetic, filled with vivid descriptions of the landscape that make Green Gables and its surroundings come alive. The narrative flows like a gentle stream, immersing the reader in a world both ethereal and grounded.
Montgomery captures the essence of childhood with uncanny grace, portraying the growing pains, joys, and lessons of youth. Her characters are real, with tangible emotions and distinct personalities. Anne herself is a complex character, filled with dreams and desires, always reaching for more but remaining rooted in her love for her new home and family.
In both substance and style, Anne of Green Gables is a literary treasure, offering an intoxicating blend of innocence and wisdom, humour and pathos. Revisiting it after so many years only reinforced its timeless appeal, and I encourage any who’ve not yet journeyed to Green Gables to do so. Whether you are young or old, this classic has something to offer.
A Solid Five Star Read
There’s hardly a doubt in my mind as to the rating this timeless masterpiece deserves. Anne of Green Gables earns a glowing five stars for several reasons. Anne Shirley is not just a character; she’s a living, breathing entity filled with passion, determination, and a zest for life. Her growth and her relationships with other richly drawn characters give the story an authentic heartbeat.
Lucy Maud Montgomery’s writing style is both elegant and accessible, weaving a tale that captivates readers of all ages. Her prose paints pictures, resonating in the heart and mind long after the pages are closed. This story’s power to evoke emotions is unparalleled. Whether it’s laughter at Anne’s whimsical misadventures or tears at more poignant moments, the connection to the reader is immediate and profound.
Touching on themes like family, friendship, self-discovery, and the love for nature, Anne of Green Gables offers wisdom that speaks to each new generation. Its lessons are timeless, its joy infectious. The recent adaptation, Anne With An E, though different, pays homage to the original story and brings a fresh perspective that aligns with modern sensibilities without losing the charm of Anne’s world.
Anne of Green Gables stands as a beacon of literary excellence, a novel that continues to inspire, enchant, and warm the hearts of readers across the globe. It’s not merely a book; it’s an experience, a childhood friend, and a lifelong companion.
Enchanting Romance
The enchantment of Anne of Green Gables is not limited to the landscape and Anne’s vivid imagination alone. A subtler yet equally charming aspect of the story lies in the blossoming romance that unfolds as Anne grows.
In her relationships, particularly with her academic rival and eventual friend, Gilbert Blythe, a delicate and innocent romance begins to take root. Their relationship is one filled with playful antagonism, mutual respect, and unspoken affection. The gentle unfolding of their friendship into something deeper adds a sweet layer to the story, reflecting the innocence and purity of first love.
This romance is not the passionate or tumultuous kind often found in literature, but rather a gradual and tender realisation of feelings that mature alongside the characters. It’s a love that grows naturally, mirroring the development of Anne herself.
In both the novel and its adaptations, this romantic element enhances the story’s warmth and complexity. It’s a reminder of the simple yet profound connections that can form between people, even in the unlikeliest of circumstances. The handling of romance in Anne of Green Gables is as graceful and genuine as the rest of this beloved tale, contributing to its well-deserved place in the hearts of readers around the world.
What Genre Is Anne of Green Gables?
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery is primarily classified as a coming-of-age novel. It’s a classic work of children’s literature that can also be categorised within the genres of family and friendship fiction. The novel’s focus on Anne Shirley’s growth, development, and her adjustment to her new family and community makes it a beloved tale for readers of all ages. It contains elements of humour, emotion, and insight into human nature, making it a multifaceted and enduring work.
How Spicy Is The Novel?
This novel is not spicy at all. It is a wholesome and family-friendly story that focuses on the growth, adventures, and friendships of a young orphan girl, Anne Shirley. Her experiences are portrayed with innocence and charm, suitable for readers of various age groups, including children. The novel emphasises themes such as imagination, kindness, community, and self-discovery, without venturing into provocative or adult content.
What Romance Tropes Are In The Novel?
Anne of Green Gables features several romance tropes that are now considered classic in literature.
Enemies to Lovers: Anne and Gilbert begin as academic rivals, with Anne initially disliking Gilbert intensely after he teases her about her red hair. Over time, their relationship evolves, and they become friends and eventually romantic partners. This slow burn from animosity to affection is a timeless romantic trope.
First Love: The romance between Anne and Gilbert represents the innocence and intensity of first love. Their feelings for each other grow slowly and naturally as they mature, capturing the sweetness and simplicity of young love.
Love-Hate Relationship: Anne’s initial feelings for Gilbert swing between anger and admiration. She’s torn between her wounded pride and her acknowledgment of Gilbert’s talents and kindness. This complex dynamic adds depth to their evolving relationship.
Slow Burn Romance: The romance between Anne and Gilbert doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow and gradual process that builds throughout the series, filled with misunderstandings, friendship, and eventual realization of deeper feelings.
The One Who Got Away (Temporarily): There are moments where it the relationship between Anne and Gilbert might never happen due to misunderstandings or other romantic interests. This tension keeps readers invested in their relationship, hoping they’ll finally admit their feelings for each other.
Intellectual Rivalry: Anne and Gilbert’s relationship starts with a competitive edge, particularly in academics. They push each other to be better, and this intellectual rivalry serves as the basis for their initial interactions, fostering respect and admiration that later turn into affection.
These tropes work together to create a layered and engaging romantic subplot that complements Anne’s individual growth and the novel’s broader themes. It’s a romance that feels timeless and real, resonating with readers of all ages.
