Anne: An Adaptation of Anne of Green Gables (sort of) by Kathleen Gros

My name is Anne (with an "e") just like the main character in Anne of Green Gables. This is not simply a coincidence, but evidence of how much my mom loved the character of Anne Shirley when she was growing up. I have read the original and seen various adaptations through the years and was excited to find that a modern graphic retelling has been written.

Anne: An Adaptation of Anne of Green Gables (sort of) is a graphic novel by Kathleen Gros set in present day. There are scenes reimagined from the original, such as whiteboards being broken over heads and shouting at Mrs. Lynde. But there are also new infusions of school clubs and dances. This book takes place over a shorter time period than the original. I was bracing for the sad event from L.M. Montgomery's novel and was relieved that this telling kept to a much happier ending.

I enjoyed finding the commonalities but also know that someone who had no idea a novel existed would enjoy the story. Children who have been in the foster system, have had family troubles, don't like their appearance, and don't know who they are or what they want in life can all find something in this book. The art is delightful and the story is easy to follow. I now want to go find the author's previous book based on Little Women!

Rating: 4.5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC!