Book Review: “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery

This book is ideally meant for children – one might think so when he sees the cover or reads through the back page. It was first published in the year 1904, authored by Lucy Maud Montgomery. It is very relevant in today’s world where we forget to live in the present. All the characters are well delineated and significant as each one reminds us that everyone is unique in their own way. 

It narrates the adventures of Anne Shirley, an 11-year-old orphan girl who is mistakenly sent to Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, a middle-aged brother and sister who had intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm in the fictional town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island. The novel recounts how Anne makes her way with the Cuthberts, in school, and within the town.

The book teaches us a lot of things, the most important being – to be who you are. Why do we need to pretend to be somebody else and do something just because everyone else is doing it? We are in a constant race to project a false image of ourselves to look better in society and unfortunately, everyone tries to be somebody, and then deep down you actually forget who you are. We need to realize that we are all different in our own way and we need to accept ourselves first. Let the world take its own course.

Another important concept that is depicted exceptionally well, is the importance of women’s equality and education. In an era like ours where feminism seems to be the most discussed word- are we actually enlightening anybody with it? Women do not have to prove themselves. The requirement is acceptance from within, about who we are and what we truly desire.

Anne of Green Gables is indeed a classic novel that teaches about love, truth, compassion, and confidence. One of the feel-good kind books which helps you find the forgotten you. The story is extremely uplifting and refreshing. I would recommend this book to anyone of any age looking for an enjoyable read.