In memory of Vanessa Yasintha Wambura (August 2003 – August 2023).

It is another cold Canadian winter day, barely anyone is outside, and I am no exception. Why not stay inside, make yourself a nice mug of hot chocolate or tea, and enjoy reading another amazing article…like this one? Recently, I have written about the amazing book Anne of Green Gables (if you have not yet read that article I suggest you read it) and I am here today to bring to you another book review, another one of my personal favorites and the sequel to the beloved series Anne of Green Gables: Anne of Avonlea. Anne of Avonlea tells of Anne’s experience being a schoolteacher and life with Marilla, her best friend Diana, two orphans and her possibly more than a friend Gilbert. Anne is now much more mature and responsible, but her imaginative spirit is as strong as ever. So sit back, relax and enjoy this great review!

Anne of Avonlea was published in 1909 by world famous author: Lucy Maud Montgomery. Thousands of people all around the world read this book, it has been translated into 36 different languages and read by all age groups. Including our wazazis!

To my view, this book contain strong characters, no violence, an important message, appropriate language and an educational value. There is nothing sad in this book, so the over-emotional people can enjoy it too.

This book takes up where Anne of Green Gables left off, covering Anne’s first two years of teaching beginning at the tender age of 16 and ending at the age of 18.With Matthew gone, life at the farm is getting even more difficult, Marilla’s eyesight is failing her and Anne has a lot going on, leaving Marilla without much help. Marilla decides to adopt a family friend’s daughter and son after their mother dies from a grave illness, two completely opposite children Dora and Davy. Davy who is known to have lots of questions (“Anne, where is sleep? People go to sleep every night, and of course I know it’s the place where I do the things I dream, but I want to know where it is and how I get there and back without knowing anything about it. . .and in my nighty too. Where is it?”) He is quite mischievous and adores Anne with all his heart. Dora is the silent type, she is mature and responsible and NEVER gets in any sort of trouble. As if the two new children in the house is enough, Anne has to take on a house filled with children as she takes on the role of the schoolteacher. She meets some amazing people including the talented and imaginative ten year old boy, Paul Irving, who soon becomes Anne’s friend. From new arrivals, broken roofs, a perfect relationship with her bosom friend Diana and romance between Anne and Gilbert, this book is a must read!

I love this book, however I expected more interaction between Gilbert and Anne and was disappointed when they did not talk much, and when they did talk there was usually a crowd with them. I did not like this because Anne and Gilbert are meant for each other and make the book more interesting.

I learned that although parents are usually right, they aren’t always, so don’t be afraid to tell your parents your opinion. Learn to love everyone’s flaws… including your own. At first Anne and Marilla could not stand Davy, but after getting to know him they loved him and his flaws. Make the most of your life situation no matter what, Davy and Dora were lucky to find a home so quickly. We need to thank God for everything we have! Although this book is not as good as the first one (in my opinion) I rate this book a 5 star since it’s still so good!

Keep on reading and enjoy the warm winter.

Vanessa Wambura