This is another of my irregular attempts to read a classic book - and this case, one I knew absolutely nothing about before picking it up.It turns out to be the tale of another orphan called Anne who has an over active imagination.
The author in her opening description of local busybody, Rachel Lynde, is immediately mischievous, hinting at the drama and fun to come.
It's a neat trick to make Anne such a cheerfully garrulous character as it makes the book feel like it is written in the first person rather than third. Hers is such a distinctive voice enthused with youthful optimism that it's impossible not to be carried along sometimes.
“But have you ever noticed one encouraging thing about me, Marilla? I never make the same mistake twice.”
“I don’t know as that’s much benefit when you’re always making new ones.”
“Oh, don’t you see, Marilla? There must be a limit to the mistakes one person can make, and when I get to the end of them, then I’ll be through with them. That’s a very comforting thought.”
It's easy to see why this is a classic as while some of the situations may have dated a little, the book is radiant with humanity and warmth. It's comfort food in the form of a book.
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