Revisiting a Classic: Anne of Green Gables

Written by Karen McNally

Books

Anne of Green Gables, by Lucy Maud Montgomery. I know this book isn't new (it was written in 1908, in fact), but since my 10-year-old daughter received her third copy of it for Christmas and she has never read or shown any interest in it, I decided to read it. I discovered what many before me have known for well, 100 years: This story is great! Anne, the little orphan girl who is such a surprise to Marilla and Matthew at Green Gables on Prince Edward Island, is a dreamy, articulate child. She is a bit of a trial to her guardians--and quite a few of her neighbors--which sounds like a million stories you've heard before, but somehow this book doesn't read as the same old thing. Frankly, I'm not sure why I was so engaged, why I picked the book up so frequently, or why I read it so quickly. Anne and her story just drew me in. And while she grows up and has more grown-up troubles to deal with, somehow the story still doesn't seem clichéd. As an adult, I honestly enjoyed Anne of Green Gables as a good read. I think you and your tween will, too.

Editor's Note: Anne of Green Gables is the first of eight books in the series by Lucy Maud Mead. You can find them online or at any major bookstore or library.