7 Adaptations and Retellings of ANNE OF GREEN GABLES to Read with Your Bosom Friends
Anne of Green Gables is a true classic. The vivid language, the indelible characters, and Anne’s indomitable spirit contribute to the book’s timelessness. A fun thing about timeless books is that they are great for remixes and retellings. We are lucky that Lucy Maud Montgomery blessed us with so many books about Anne, but some readers still can’t get enough. So other authors have stepped up to the plate, ready to reimagine Anne in different settings, ages, and bodies.
There are some specific aspects of Anne’s story that make it so interesting to retell. Plenty of readers have picked up on the bosom friendship between Anne and Diana and wondered if there isn’t something more there. Other readers have really attached themselves to that rivals-to-lovers story of Anne and Gilbert. What belonging feels like and what makes a family are always worth thinking about. The authors below explore these ideas, as well as imagining what kind of hijinks Anne would get up to in other times and places.
What’s especially great about this collection of books is that it caters to a wide range of ages. If you’re an adult Anne fan (Fanne?) with a kid in your life who’s a little too young for the original books, we’ve got books that can prepare that young reader. There are plenty of books aimed at the same audience as the originals, and a couple for adults eager to continue taking inspiration from the world of Green Gables. I can’t blame you; I’m right there with you!
Goodnight, Anne by Kallie George, illustrated by Geneviève Godbout
This lovely bedtime picture book is one of several adaptations of Anne’s story for very young readers. Imagine yourself reading to a child this sweet book about Anne saying good night to all of her favorite people, places, and things. Now imagine how that child will feel when they later find out there’s so much more to learn about the world of the girl from their beloved bedtime story! Note to self: buy this book for my littlest nieces and nephews.
Anne of Green Gables by Katherine Woodfine, illustrated by Isabelle Follath
Again, if you have a reader who isn’t quite ready for the original but might be ready for something longer than a picture book, this illustrated adaptation fits the bill. It’s a condensed version of the original story, but it maintains the sense of joy and wonder. The lovely illustrations add extra charm and appeal.
Anne by Kathleen Gros
This contemporary adaptation tells Anne’s story in graphic novel format. As I alluded to in the introduction of this article, this is one of the books that imagines Anne’s relationship with Diana might be more than platonic. Sorry to all fans of the famous raspberry cordial scene, but this adaptation does omit the accidental underage drinking.
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Anne of West Philly by Ivy Noelle Weir, illustrated by Myisha Haynes
Given how common it is nowadays to have a family structure that differs from the heteronormative stereotype, it’s easy to adapt Anne’s story to current times. In this graphic novel adaptation, she’s in West Philadelphia as a foster kid. This book brings a Black Girl Joy energy to Anne that makes so much sense. If you want to see Anne living it up in the robotics club, this is the adaptation to pick up.
Ana of California by Andi Teran
A YA reimagining, this story has a contemporary setting starring Ana, who goes to a farm training program in Northern California after things go wrong with a foster family. This program is the last thing between her and a group home, so she’s determined to get her act together. The siblings running the farm are the book’s analog for the Cuthberts. This fresh retelling follows Ana as she learns not to lose herself as she seeks out a sense of belonging.
Anne of Manhattan by Brina Starler
Here’s an adult retelling of the classic, set in New York City. Anne is headed to Manhattan for graduate school, where she reunites with former academic rival Gilbert. He’s been in California for the past five years. The two end up with the same thesis advisor. Pushed back together, they soon discover how thin the line between love and hate really is.
What the Fireflies Knew by Kai Harris
This book isn’t a direct retelling of Anne of Green Gables, but the book is so integrated into the story that I had to include it for you. This is a coming-of-age story for adult readers about an eleven-year-old girl named KB. She is sent to live with her estranged grandfather following the death of her father. You can see how the set-up bears a resemblance to Anne’s story. In fact, KB has a copy of Anne of Green Gables, and the book helps her understand her own circumstances. It’s a touching and heartfelt story that anyone who loves Anne will also appreciate.
If you love retellings, we’ve got more recommendations for you. How about fairy tale retellings, Little Women remixes, and Little Red Riding Hood for all ages? Books make the best bosom friends, don’t they?
