Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel

From School Library Journal Gr 3–7—A jewel-toned graphic novel adaptation of the beloved classic. This abridged version of Anne of Green Gables appropriately condenses the longtime favorite into a more accessible volume, but it doesn't cut out the spirit of Montgomery's effervescent heroine. As chatty, imaginative, and scatter-brained as ever, the redheaded protagonist and her new family and town are brought to vivid life by the humorous dialogue and the vignettes that Marsden selected for this treatment. Anne's adventures with the raspberry cordial, dyed hair, Haunted Wood, puffed sleeves, and Lady of Shallot are portrayed with aplomb. Readers are also treated to the endearing characters of busybody Rachel Lynde, dreamy but practical Diana, teasing Gilbert Blythe, shy Matthew, and the hard-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside Marilla. Other favorite characters get short shrift: Miss Stacy is barely mentioned. What makes all of these characters and episodes stand out are the almost-Technicolor illustrations by Thummler, whose interpretation of Avonlea and Green Gables will make anyone understand why the verbose orphan would want to stay in this candy-colored paradise. The landscapes, characterizations, joys and triumphs, and moments of despair are brilliantly depicted in a variety of panel sizes, which serve to heighten the narrative plot points and convey the pacing of each scene. Full pages and spreads are used intermittently to dramatic effect. The winning combination will please both fans and newcomers. VERDICT A gem of a graphic novel adaptation that should be shelved right alongside the original for those who don't want to wade through the wordy prose. A must-purchase.—Shelley M. Diaz, School Library Journal The spirit of Anne is alive and well in Mariah Marsden's crisp adaptation, and it's a thrill to watch as the beloved orphan rushes headlong through Brenna Thummler's heavenly landscapes. Together Marsden and Thummler conjure all the magic and beauty of Green Gables. Like Anne herself, you won't want to leave. (Brian Selznick, author/illustrator of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” and “The Marvels”) The illustrations are incredible. Like Anne, I wanted to stay in Green Gables right away, and I loved it even more as the seasons changed and the years passed. And Anne is such a captivating character—uncertain but determined, vulnerable but strong, unique but universal. I finished reading this book and then immediately read it again.xa0(Dana Simpson, cartoonist, “Phoebe & Her Unicorn,” “Ozy & Millie”) From the first panel, I was enchanted . . . .xa0Thummler's illustrations are beautiful, inviting, and lovely . . . I read it in one sitting, and it stayed with me long after. This was a delight!xa0(Georgia Dunn, cartoonist, “Breaking Cat News”)An orphan with “hair as red as carrots” and the mischief she creates come to vivid life in this graphic novel version of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel, a debut for both author and artist. Thummler’s crisp illustrations warmly capture pug-nosed Anne’s indomitable spirit as she navigates her new life with sibling caretakers Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. Marsden distills the high notes from Montgomery’s original—the raspberry cordial incident, Anne’s redemption, and the dress with the pretty puffed sleeves among them—while Thummler’s bright palette showcases the natural beauty in Avonlea that so captivates Anne. Darker shades and stark blocking imbue somber moments with deep emotion: Matthew’s loneliness is viscerally apparent in an early scene in which he contemplates returning Anne to the orphanage, his figure hunched and still on the lower quarter of the page while vast darkness stretches above him. But the story is carried by Anne’s pure, unabashed joy and eagerness. Newcomers to Anne’s world and devoted fans alike should devour this spirited adaptation. Ages 7–12. (Oct.) (Publishers Weekly, Publishers Weekly)“L. M. Montgomery’s classic tale is delicately and lovingly transformed into a graphic novel…Though the original tale is abridged and adapted, Marsden is careful not to rush the plot…[Thummler’s] soft, pastel palette is a perfect complement to the historical setting, and her softly glowing art is the heart of this fitting tribute to a beloved work.”xa0(Snow Wildsmith, Booklist)“A gem of a graphic novel adaptation that should be shelved right alongside the original…A must-purchase.”xa0(School Library Journal) " A classic presented in a new format that's perfectly suited for one of the most imaginative girls in children's literature."xa0(Stephanie Anderson, Shelf Awareness)