anne of green gables

"Oh Matthew, red hair is such a trial..." So speaks Anne Shirley (that's Anne with an 'e', thank you very much), the spirited young girl so many of us grew up with in one form or another. Anne is now ready to meet a new generation, thanks to Usborne's picture book version, adapted by Lesley Sims and illustrated by Alan Marks.

Anne is a character every child should know: idealistic, strong-opinioned, and ready to be your bosom friend (well, unless you're Gilbert Blythe). This picture book version only scratches the surface, of course, as Anne's original story is a full chapter book - but this glimpse is full of life and humor, re-telling enough to introduce Anne and transport your young readers to Prince Edward Island. It essentially sews together some of the most memorable moments of the plot so you have one condensed, simple story about a girl being adopted and growing up with sweet friends.

One of the best elements of this book is, of course, the illustrations: rich watercolors that beautifully capture Anne's favorite spots: Green Gables, the "White Way of Delight", Orchard Slope... and, of course, the famous scene in the boat as Anne acts out "The Lady of Shallot." They certainly build your scope of imagination! 

It's that book you'll pull out to bridge the gap between your childhood and that of your kids.

Book benefits:

• Vibrant illustrations bring this classic favorite back to life
• Story pulls together vignettes from the original story into a smooth retelling that fits into the scope of a picture book
• Padded hardcover book will withstand many, many re-readings!

Pick up a copy of Anne of Green Gables and read it with a kindred spirit! (padded hardcover, $9.99)