Anne de la Green Gables

Anne Shirley is an orphan, aged eleven. She finds a home she did not expect. Marilla and Matthew had asked for a boy. They need help with farm and house work. They are brother and sister, both middle-aged and unwed. A mix-up sends Anne to Green Gables in Avonlea. It lies on Canada's Prince Edward Island. Marilla plans to send her back, but pity stops her.

Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote this novel for children. It follows Anne as she grows up. Anne is thin, with freckles and red hair. She has a warm heart and a quick temper. She loves to talk and has a rich inner world. It brings her both joy and trouble. Mrs Lynde, Marilla's friend, makes a cruel remark about Anne's looks. Anne then insults her. A boy in her class mocks her hair. She breaks a slate over his head. Anne longs for dark hair and pale skin. Her best friend, Diana, has both. Yet Anne sees beauty in trees in bloom and shining water. She names places from her dreams.

As Anne grows, she learns to curb her temper. She learns to forgive and respect herself and others. After school in Avonlea, she goes to college. She wins the Avery scholarship for literature. But Matthew dies, and Marilla falls ill. These events lead Anne to give up the award. She takes a teaching job in Avonlea to stay with Marilla.

This book forms part of the Cartea copiilor isteti collection. The story starts the series about Anne Shirley. It has taken new forms on film, TV, radio and the web. These range from silent films to musicals.