TL;DR
Anne of Avonlea is about Anne Shirley's adventures as she becomes a teacher in her hometown of Avonlea, managing new responsibilities, relationships, and the first stirrings of love.
What is Anne of Avonlea about
'Anne of Avonlea' is the second book in the Anne of Green Gables series by L.M. Montgomery. The story follows Anne Shirley, now nearly grown, as she takes up the role of a teacher in her old school in Avonlea. Throughout the book, Anne navigates the challenges of her new profession, the dynamics with her students and colleagues, and her evolving relationships with her friends and family. As Anne embarks on new adventures, she helps to form a village improvement society, becomes involved in the lives of her neighbors, and assists her adoptive mother, Marilla, in raising young orphan twins, Dora and Davy. The narrative is rich with themes of growth, community, and the early signs of romance.
Anne of Avonlea 5 Key Takeaways
Anne becomes a teacher
Anne Shirley takes on her first teaching role at her old school in Avonlea, where she faces the challenges of winning over her students and establishing herself as a capable educator.
Formation of a village improvement society
Anne and her friends initiate efforts to improve their village by forming a society aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Avonlea.
Assisting Marilla with the twins
Anne helps Marilla, her adoptive mother, to raise orphan twins Dora and Davy. The twins bring both joy and chaos into their household, presenting Anne with new responsibilities.
Anne's evolving relationship with Gilbert Blythe
Gilbert Blythe, Anne's childhood adversary turned friend, is also a teacher in a nearby town. Although he harbors feelings for Anne, he has not yet confessed them to her, adding a layer of unspoken tension to their interactions.
Anne's first stirrings of love
As Anne matures, she begins to experience the early signals of romantic feelings, which add emotional depth to her character's development.
Top Anne of Avonlea Quotes
- 'It's not what the world holds for you. It's what you bring to it.'
- 'Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think.'
Who should read Anne of Avonlea?
Fans of the original 'Anne of Green Gables' book will find 'Anne of Avonlea' equally enchanting. It's perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a blend of humor, romance, and life lessons. Young adults and nostalgic readers alike will appreciate Anne's continued adventures and growth.
Anne of Avonlea Best Reviews
- 'Anne of Avonlea' continues to capture the charm and wit that made the first book so beloved. Montgomery's storytelling is as engaging and heartwarming as ever. - The Guardian
- L.M. Montgomery's sequel to 'Anne of Green Gables' offers a delightful blend of humor, emotion, and life lessons, making it a must-read for fans of the series. - Booklist
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Anne of Avonlea FAQs
What happens in the book 'Anne of Avonlea'?
Anne becomes a teacher in Avonlea, helps form a village improvement society, aids Marilla in raising orphan twins, and begins to experience romantic feelings.
Is Gilbert in the book 'Anne of Avonlea'?
Yes, Gilbert Blythe appears in the book as a fellow teacher and Anne's good friend, who harbors unspoken romantic feelings for her.
How old is Anne Shirley in the book 'Anne of Avonlea'?
Anne is in her late teens, around 16-17 years old, as she takes on her new role as a teacher and navigates the challenges of young adulthood.