Welcome to Week 2 of the Online Book Club discussion of Anne of Green Gables.
How did you enjoy the first part of the book? I love all the descriptions of the landscape on Prince Edward Island, don't you? I feel like it must be a magical land with blooming flowers everywhere, and I would love to visit. Check out the book The Landscapes of Anne of Green Gables to see more photos and drawings of the setting, or take a look at the Prince Edward Island Tourism site if the book is tempting you to visit the province where it takes place.
What were your first impressions of Anne and the Cuthbert siblings? Marilla is a prickly character, but you can tell that she has a soft heart buried beneath the surface. Matthew is so sweet and kind. I love how he just lets Anne talk at him. Anne is a hoot. I like reading about her, but I'm not sure if I would enjoy spending time with her. Her temper might be a little taxing. What do you think? Do you think you could be friends with any of the characters?
One of the most touching parts in this first section was where Anne was describing the imaginary friends she created at her first homes. At one home, she named her reflection Katie Maurice, and she called her echo Violetta at a second home. On one hand, it's great that Anne had such an imagination that she was able to pretend these simple things were close friends. But it's also sad that Anne was so lonely she needed these imaginings to fill a void for her. When I read this section as a child, it didn't stand out to me, but now, as an adult, it made my heart feel heavy. Did it affect you this way?
When I was researching L.M. Montgomery, I found a list of facts about her that said she created imaginary friends from her reflection too. The list has plenty of details about Montgomery when she was younger, if you're interested. If you prefer a more formal biography, the University of Prince Edward Island has one, with some photos.
Do you have a mental picture of what each character looks like? If you're struggling to imagine them, check out this site from the company that produced the 1985 movie and its sequels. It describes each character and the actor who portrayed them. I think I picture these actors in my head when I read the story, since I am most familiar with that adaptation.
What chapters stood out to you? Did you feel sorry for Anne when people made fun of her for wearing flowers in her hat to church? Did you cheer when Matthew took Anne under his wing and brought her sweets? Did you cringe when Rachel Lynde made fun of Anne's looks? I'm really interested to hear what your favorite parts of this first section were.
Before you go, check out the audition of Megan Follows, who portrayed Anne in the 1985 adaptation. I always enjoy seeing behind-the-scenes peeks at the movie-making process!
I hope to hear from you in the comments section. Make sure you read through chapter 26 before joining us next week!
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