*Contains Spoilers*

The novel Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery tells the life of a former orphan who went to live with the Cuthbert siblings, Marilla and Matthew. This girl was Anne Shirley, Anne with an “e” as she would often tell new acquaintances. Unfortunately, Anne’s beginnings with a family do not go as planned, as Marilla and Matthew wanted a boy to help them do work in their farms. The novel tells of Anne’s adventures in Avonlea, Prince Edward Island as she tries to warm up to her adoptive family and find a way to fit in to her new surroundings and home at Green Gables. Anne begins to make new friends like Diana Barry and Gilbert Blythe, who she eventually falls in love with. This novel is beautifully written, expressing how families come in a variety of ways.

Anne is one of those bubbly, outgoing children who seem like they were born adults. She has an extensive vocabulary that she uses more often than most would want her to and a vivid imagination, which is to be expected when all you’ve seen are the walls of an orphanage. Anne acts as an inspiration to readers that you can do anything you put your mid to. She was able to gain top scores in school, earning herself a scholarship, and she eventually found her place in Avonlea, earning the respect of most in her town. Anne puts a positive spin on reality with her imagination, always choosing to see the best in people. This was difficult for Anne to do when Gilbert Blythe called her “carrots,” criticizing her red hair. Nevertheless, Anne remains insightful and outgoing throughout the story. Society needs people like Anne to remind us that “kindred spirits” are still out there, people who see things the way you do.

It was extremely heartwarming that Anne was able to connect with Marilla and Matthew, even though they were not blood related. When Marilla’s eyesight was failing her and she was left alone in Green Gables after her brother Matthew died, Anne gave up her scholarship and education to take care of Marilla. Anne loved Marilla like a mother, acting selflessly in her decision to stay at Green Gables. Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert also made sacrifices for Anne, taking her in even when they knew a boy was needed for work. The Cuthberts and Anne Shirley were able to help each other: The Cuthberts gave Anne a family she never thought she would have, and Anne showed the Cuthberts how sublime life can be.

I remember watching the “Anne of Green Gables” series, later watching the movie that brought the words on the pages to life. Anne Shirley inspired me to look at life like it was your last, seeing beauty in even the smallest things. The book made me laugh, it made me cry, but overall it changed my perspective. Whether you watch the series, the movie, or actually read the book, know that “Anne of Green Gables” is a great adventure. I had never been so moved by a story, until I read this novel by L.M. Montgomery a few years back for the first time. I’ve re-read the book recently, and I went through a ton of emotions all over again. It’s a beautiful story with an inspiring message, and I hope anyone else who reads it has the same reaction. I know this book will always be on my list of favorite books.