Genre: Fiction, Children’s literature, a classic
Key Stage: Year 2+
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐and a half
Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery (1908)
Plot: L.M Montgomery tells the story of an orphan girl called Anne who finds a home in Avonlea with two elderly siblings. They were looking for a boy to help them with their farm work, however a mix up causes them to take home a very spirited and creative girl who starts to make friends and find her place in the world. The next seven novels in the series highlight Anne’s life as she grows up.
Positives: Before I read this book, I had already watched the show and it was just as good as this first book in the series. For me, I was familiar with the characters and story so reading this was easy to get into and enjoy. I really liked the characters, especially our protagonist Anne who is fierce, yet kind and imaginative. She reminded me that you should appreciate seeing the beauty of the world as she herself had the ability to find wonder in everything around her. Anne is so optimistic and thoughtful that even though others may dislike her, her uniqueness and resilience powers through which is very empowering. This timeless classic revealed her as one of my favourite characters. This book teaches tales of friendship and found family though Anne’s experiences and adventures in the small town of Avonlea.
Negatives: I loved the first book, but the others didn’t manage to interest me as much since I felt as if Anne began to lose her imagination as she grew up. Anne does think and talk a lot so some parts may be boring or repetitive however I liked reading about her thoughts.
Reviewer: Rose, Year 9