The Enduring Magic of Anne of Green Gables: A Journey Through Imagination
“It’s been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will”
It's easy to see oneself in Anne—young, full of dreams, and wonderfully imaginative. In Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery, Anne’s perspective on the world and everything in it is captivating, making her adventures feel personal and relatable, especially for someone like me who loves reading and visualising scenarios. The combination of Anne’s childlike wonder coupled with her strong moral compass is truly endearing.
What truly stood out to me in this book was its pacing. It’s an engaging read that moves swiftly, yet at times it slows down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. It reminds me of those leisurely days when you're strolling through a park, savouring each and every encounter—the kind of walk where the mundane becomes meaningful.
Reading this book right after Little Women deepened my appreciation of its story. While the stakes may not be as high, watching Anne's journey from youth to adulthood, as she inches closer to her dreams, was an absolute joy. It serves as a beautiful reminder that with dreams, determination, and effort, anything is possible. I particularly enjoyed when Anne made mistakes—clearly by accident—that she owned up to, yet also found herself telling lies to twist situations in her favour. It’s a joy to read about a character who feels like a real child, not a saviour, not in distress—simply learning through life.
The contrast between her guardians added a fascinating and relatable dynamic to the story. With a strict mother and a more lenient father, the family dynamic felt authentic, staying true to the characters' personalities throughout the narrative. Despite their differences, they never felt frustrating, but rather, real, contributing to the warm, homely feel of the book.
I have a deep appreciation for this story. It's something I would have cherished as a child, and seeing Anne's development throughout her life is truly inspiring. Every moment spent with this book was well worth it.