October 04, 2024

After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life

After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life by Logan Steiner


After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life by Logan Steiner was published in May 2023 by William Morrow Paperbacks, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. In her debut novel, Steiner tells L.M. Montgomery's story through the use of historical fiction to depict Montgomery's aspirations, creative life, and personal struggles.

Here is the description of the book from HarperCollins Publishers:

USA TODAY BESTSELLER

A stunning and unexpected portrait of Lucy Maud Montgomery, creator of one of literature’s most prized heroines, whose personal demons were at odds with her most enduring legacy—the irrepressible Anne of Green Gables.

“Dear old world,” she murmured, “you are very lovely, and I am glad to be alive in you.” —L. M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables, 1908

As a young woman, Maud had dreams bigger than the whole of Prince Edward Island. Her exuberant spirit had always drawn frowns from her grandmother and their neighbors, but she knew she was meant to create, to capture and share the way she saw the world. And the young girl in Maud’s mind became more and more persistent: Here is my story, she said. Here is how my name should be spelled—Anne with an “e.”

But the day Maud writes the first lines of Anne of Green Gables, she gets a visit from the handsome new minister in town, and soon faces a decision: forge her own path as a spinster authoress, or live as a rural minister’s wife, an existence she once called "a synonym for respectable slavery." The choice she makes alters the course of her life.

With a husband whose religious mania threatens their health and happiness at every turn, the secret darkness that Maud herself holds inside threatens to break through the persona she shows to the world, driving an ever-widening wedge between her public face and private self, and putting her on a path towards a heartbreaking end.

Beautiful and moving, After Anne reveals Maud’s hidden personal challenges while celebrating what was timeless about her life and art—the importance of tenacity and the peaceful refuge found in imagination.

Reviews

"In this outstanding debut, Logan Steiner delivers a moving, richly detailed and nuanced portrayal of a deeply fascinating woman. Steiner, with a loving hand, lifts the veil of L.M. Montgomery to give us a glimpse of Maud, her strength, her struggles, her quiet courage navigating life as both an ambitious author and a loving friend, wife and mother. Steiner’s extensive research is evident not only in the facts but in the complex emotional tapestry she weaves. Anne of Green Gables fans will sure to delight in this book, but so will any fans of interesting, complicated and clever women."
— Brianna Labuskes, author of The Librarian of Burned Books

"An exquisite tribute to Lucy Maud Montgomery, the revered author who gave us so much scope for imagination. After Anne is for fans who long to know the woman behind Anne Shirley's story. Get ready, this book will break your heart in the most splendid ways."
— Sarah McCoy, New York Times and internationally bestselling author of Marilla of Green Gables


Image credit:
Book cover of After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life.

Purchase and read After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life:

After Anne: A Novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Life by Logan Steiner

Created October 4, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

October 03, 2024

Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island

Photograph of Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island Pamphlet from Tourism PEI

Over the summer, I received a PEI Visitor's Guide from Tourism PEI. Inside the package was a pamphlet called "Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island" with information on L.M. Montgomery and her writings and a map marked with locations for visitors to experience places important to her.

Here are photographs of the pamphlet. One side has a nice biography of L.M. Montgomery.

Photograph of Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island Pamphlet from Tourism PEI

Photograph of Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island Pamphlet from Tourism PEI

The reverse side of the pamphlet features a map marked with 18 locations and activities for visitors.

Photograph of Discover Montgomery's Prince Edward Island Pamphlet from Tourism PEI

The locations and activities include:

1. Montgomery Park
2. L.M. Montgomery Birthplace
3. Lower Bedeque School
4. Montgomery Inn at Ingleside
5. The Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead
6. Bideford Parsonage Museum
7. The Site of L.M. Montgomery's Cavendish Home
8. The Kensington Train Station
9. The Cavendish United Church
10. The Cavendish Cemetery
11. Green Gables Heritage Place
12. Anne of Green Gables Museum
13. L.M.M. Institute at UPEI
14. Shop and Play
15. Anne of Green Gables, The Musical
16. Avonlea Village
17. Anne and Gilbert, The Musical
18. The Anne of Green Gables Store

It is a helpful guide to discover places important to L.M. Montgomery in celebration of her 150th birthday this year.


Official Website:
Tourism Prince Edward Island

Image Credit:
Photographs of "Discovering Montgomery's Prince Edward Island" Tourism PEI pamphlet taken by World of Anne Shirley.

Created October 3, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

October 01, 2024

Stratford Festival Commissions a New Play Based on Anne of Green Gables

Screencapture of part of the Stratford Festival 2025 Playbill featuring Anne of Green Gables

Last month, the internationally acclaimed Stratford Festival announced that they are developing a new play based on Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. The new adaptation is by playwright Kat Sandler, who will also direct the production. The play will premiere at the Avon Theatre as part of the Festival's 2025 season.

Founded in 1953, the Stratford Festival is a theatre festival that runs from April to October each year in Stratford, Ontario, Canada. The Festival is renowned for its productions of Shakespeare's plays, and it also presents a variety of other plays and musicals. The Festival has featured many talented actors over the years, including several who starred in adaptations of L.M. Montgomery works, including Megan Follows, Jonathan Crombie, Jackie Burroughs, Sarah Polley, and Charmion King.

The new Anne of Green Gables play is a Stratford Festival commission sponsored by The Schulich Foundation. The Stratford Festival's website describes the play as follows:

"Is there a Canadian title with more global recognition than Anne of Green Gables? More than 56 million copies have been sold, and it has been translated into 30 languages.

Anne of Green Gables by Kat Sandler is a bold adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's timeless tale of imagination, resilience and the transformative power of love. Set in the picturesque village of Avonlea, it follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an irrepressible orphan with a vivid imagination and an unyielding spirit.

Sandler, who will also direct, is known for her deeply funny yet poignant plays and has written and directed extensively across Canada. She has enormous affection and respect for this story and wants to bring it vibrantly to life for another generation. The story of an outsider, an orphan, who finds happiness and wins the hearts not only of her adoptive family but of her doubting community is a story for the ages."

In a recent CBC News interview with Kat Sandler and Keith Barker (the Stratford Festival's director of new play development), the pair talk about reintroducing Anne Shirley's timeless story to a new generation of viewers. Barker states that they aim to be true to the novel, which he says, "reads beautifully" and "it's accessible, it's funny, it's smart." Sandler comments on the story's timeless themes saying, "Love, belonging, chosen family, community, loss, class — like, these are really big, big themes with high stakes." Sandler hopes that her adaptation reflects these themes.


Official Website:
Stratford Festival

Image Credit:
Screencapture of part of the Stratford Festival's 2025 Playbill featuring Anne of Green Gables.

References:
How the Stratford Festival wants to reimagine 'Canadian epic' Anne of Green Gables for a new era. (2024, September 8). CBC News. Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6502563.

Ryan, Carolyn. (2024, September 8). Renowned Stratford Festival commissions new Anne of Green Gables play. CBC News. Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-anne-of-green-gables-stratford-festival-1.7313342.

Created October 1, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers

A quote from Anne Shirley about October by L.M. Montgomery in Anne of Green Gables.

"I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."
-L.M. Montgomery
Anne of Green Gables

Read more quotes by L.M. Montgomery.

Image credit:
Photograph by World of Anne Shirley.

Purchase and read Anne of Green Gables:

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery Anne of Green Gables Book Set by L.M. Montgomery


Created October 1, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 28, 2024

Rare Anne of Green Gables Book at the Empire State Rare Book and Print Fair

Rare Anne of Green Gables Book at the Empire State Rare Book and Print Fair


The Empire State Rare Book and Print Fair is taking place this weekend at the City College of New York in New York City. The fair opened yesterday (September 27, 2024), and will continue through September 29th.

Among the many rare items offered is a first printing of Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery in one of five surviving jackets from 1909 or earlier. The book is valued at $40,000.

What a special treasure for a book collector.


Location:
The Great Hall, Shepard Hall,
City College of New York,
160 Convent Ave,
New York, NY 10031

Official Website:
Fine Book Fairs

Image Credit:
Photograph of select books featured at the The Empire State Rare Book and Print Fair from Fine Books & Collections.

Reference:
Empire State Rare Book & Print Fair Opens Today. (2024, September 27). Fine Books & Collections. Retrieved from: https://www.finebooksmagazine.com/fine-books-news/empire-state-rare-book-print-fair-opens-today.

Created September 28, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 25, 2024

Support an Anne of Green Gables Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS

Anne of Green Gables Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS by Iyan Ha

Today, I read a post by CivEng_NY on Reddit about a wonderful LEGO IDEAS project. Iyan Ha has proposed and designed an intricate Anne of Green Gables LEGO set. It has exceptional detail, and the design involves 2,935 bricks and has 5 minifigures.

This product idea has a chance of becoming a real LEGO set, but only if it has 10,000 supporters. After it reaches this goal, the idea will undergo an expert review by LEGO before the project is approved for production. This morning, Iyan Ha's Anne of Green Gables project idea had 1,366 supporters.

I signed up to support the project, and you can too. Let's help make this idea a reality!

Visit the Anne of Green Gables project page at LEGO IDEAS to sign up as a supporter.

Here are a few additional images of the project. Iyan Ha studied many references to design the Green Gables house. The model allows you to act out scenes from the novel both outside and inside Green Gables. In the scene below, Matthew Cuthbert brings Anne Shirley to Green Gables by carriage and Marilla meets them at the door. The model has such lovely details like the blooming Snow Queen.

Matthew and Anne arriving at Green Gables. Anne of Green Gables Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS By Iyan Ha

Here, Anne Shirley accidentally serves her bosom friend Diana Barry currant wine instead of raspberry cordial, and Diana gets drunk. Oops. I love the expression on Diana's face.

Diana Barry enjoying currant wine with Anne Shirley. Anne of Green Gables Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS By Iyan Ha

Here is an image of the 5 minifigures: Matthew Cuthbert, Marilla Cuthbert, Anne Shirley, Gilbert Blythe, and Diana Barry. Anne is breaking her slate over Gilbert's head, while Diana looks on in dismay.

Anne of Green Gables Minifigures: Matthew Cuthbert, Marilla Cuthbert, Anne Shirley, Gilbert Blythe, and Diana Barry. Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS By Iyan Ha

I've highlighted a handful of the images of Iyan Ha's project. You can view all 15 images at LEGO IDEAS, and sign up to support the project.

Official Website:
Anne of Green Gables Product Idea at LEGO IDEAS by Iyan Ha

Image Credits:
Images of the Anne of Green Gables Product Idea by Iyan Ha at LEGO IDEAS.


Created September 25, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

Old-time rambles through September woods

A quote about old-time rambles through September woods by L.M. Montgomery in Anne of the Island.
"“I’ve come up to ask you to go for one of our old-time rambles through September woods and ‘over hills where spices grow,’ this afternoon,” said Gilbert..."
-L.M. Montgomery
Anne of the Island

Read more quotes by L.M. Montgomery.

Image credit:
Photograph by World of Anne Shirley.

Purchase and read Anne of the Island and the Anne of Green Gables series:

Anne of the Island by L.M. Montgomery Anne of Green Gables Book Set by L.M. Montgomery


Created September 25, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 24, 2024

Studio 100 International to Remaster Anne of Green Gables Anime Series

Screencapture of Matthew Cuthbert and Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gables (1979) Anime

AnimationXpress reported today that a German company called Studio 100 International is currently "remastering" the Anne of Green Gables (1979) anime using AI-assisted technologies to transform these series to full HD with a 16:9 widescreen format. The company specializes in entertainment for children and families. According to a press release from the company, it is undertaking the initiative as part of its "Heroes of Childhood" licensing campaign to breath "new life into its iconic classic series." Along with remastering Anne of Green Gables, they plan to remaster several other classic animated series from the 1970s, including Alice in Wonderland, Sinbad, Vic the Viking, Pinocchio, Nils Holgersson, Heidi, Marco (3000 Leagues in Search of Mother), and Maya the Bee.

By using AI-assisted technologies, Studio 100 International aims to create visual information needed to adapt the animated content to a widescreen format. They explain that the scenes will then be refined manually to maintain the integrity of the original. The audio for each series will be reconstructed to support different language versions for global distribution.

Studio 100 International will present the first remastered episodes for this project at MIPCOM in Cannes, which takes place from October 21–24, 2024.

Tampering with the early productions of Hayao Miyazaki and the late Isao Takahata, who went on to establish the beloved Studio Ghibli, has caused outcry in the anime community according to an article by Paris Geolas at CBR. Geolas writes, "The usage of AI in Studio Ghibli works in particular has been strongly objected to given Hayao Miyazaki’s clear disapproval of the medium when it comes to animation. Many animation studios now use CGI and sometimes AI to enhance the animation or increase output within tight deadlines, but Studio Ghibli has always been faithful to using hand-drawn frames, contributing to the studio’s unique and beloved art style."


Image Credit:
Screencapture from Anne of Green Gables (1979) Anime.

References:

AnimationXpress Team. (2024, September 24). Studio 100 International to present remastered classic series like ‘Pinocchio’ and ‘Heidi’ at MIPCOM. AnimationXpress.com. Retrieved from: https://www.animationxpress.com/animation/studio-100-international-to-present-remastered-classic-series-like-pinocchio-and-heidi-at-mipcom/.

Geolas, Paris. (2024, October 2). Studio Ghibli Founders' Earliest Anime Works Get "Cutting-Edge AI" Remasters. CBR. Retrieved from: https://www.cbr.com/studio-ghibli-first-anime-ai-remaster-controversy/.

Studio 100 International Remasters Classic TV Series in Full-HD and 16:9 for the First Time. (2024, 24 September). Press Release. Studio 100 International. Retrieved from: https://media.studio100international.com/media/sites/2/2024/09/d30fc09701-240924_pressrelease_s100int_classics-remastering_final.pdf.

Studio 100 International Unveils Full-HD and 16:9 Remasters of Beloved Classic TV Series. (2024, September 24). FormatBiz. Retrieved from: https://www.formatbiz.it/dettNews.aspx?id=11905.


Created September 24, 2024. Last updated October 3, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

The Green Gables Diary Website

Screencapture of The Green Gables Diary website

This past summer, a website called The Green Gables Diary launched. It is a digital exhibition that accompanies the new book Becoming Green Gables: The Diary of Myrtle Webb and Her Famous Farmhouse by Alan MacEachern. The book tells the story of Myrtle Webb and her family, who owned the farm that Myrtle's cousin L.M. Montgomery based "Green Gables" upon. Once a simple farm, Myrtle's home became a tourist destination when it became known as the inspiration behind Anne of Green Gables. Eventually, Myrtle had to leave her home when Parks Canada decided to form a national park in Cavendish with Green Gables as its centerpiece.

Myrtle kept a diary from 1924 to 1954, providing a historical record of what her life was like living in "the most famous house in Canada." The Green Gables Diary contains digital scans and a transcription of her entire diary, as well as photographs and introductory materials to learn more about Myrtle Webb, her family, and the history of Green Gables.


Official Website:
The Green Gables Diary

Image Credit:
Screencapture of The Green Gables Diary website.

Reference:
MacEachern, Alan. (2024). The Green Gables Diary. Retrieved from: https://greengablesdiary.ca/.

Purchase and read Becoming Green Gables by Alan MacEachern:

Becoming Green Gables: The Diary of Myrtle Webb and Her Famous Farmhouse by Alan MacEachern

Created September 24, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 23, 2024

Green Gables Gal Clue in USA Today Crossword Puzzle

Screencapture of USA Today Crossword Puzzle from September 23, 2024

Check out today's crossword puzzle at USA Today. Titled "Lace Up," the September 23, 2024 puzzle was constructed by Stella Zawistowski and edited by Amanda Rafkin.

The clue for 24 Down is "Green Gables gal."

I'm sure all the Anne of Green Gables fans out there won't have to puzzle long over this clue!


Image Credit:
Screencapture of USA Today Crossword Puzzle from September 23, 2024 constructed by Stella Zawistowski and edited by Amanda Rafkin.

Created September 23, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 22, 2024

The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour

The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour Website Screencapture

This summer, a website called "The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour" launched. Its goal is "to help guide Prince Edward Islanders and visitors from around the world to learn about and visit some of the most important and meaningful places which inspired Montgomery to write. Official place names, thought-provoking key words and descriptive passages help set the stage for your real or virtual tour experience."

The literary tour includes a map that indicates 16 sites that were significant to L.M. Montgomery for visitors to explore:



The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour Map

1. Montgomery Park
2. Macneill Homestead
3. Cavendish United Church
4. Cavendish Cemetery
5. Haunted Wood
6. Green Gables House
7. Cavendish Shore
8. L.M. Montgomery Birthplace
9. Anne of Green Gables Museum
10. Lake of Shining Waters
11. Senator Donald Montgomery House/Inn at Ingleside
12. Kensington Train Station
13. Bideford Parsonage Museum
14. Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead
15. Confederation Centre of the Arts
16. Robertson Library/L.M. Montgomery Institute/UPEI

It is a helpful guide to learn about sites important to L.M. Montgomery in celebration of her 150th birthday this year.


Official Website:
The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour

Image Credit:
Screencapture of The Inspiring World of L.M. Montgomery: A Literary Tour website.

Reference:

Russell, Nancy. (2024, July 2). L.M. Montgomery group hopes to capitalize on 150th birthday to attract new fans. CBC News. Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-montgomery-150-birthday-new-fans-1.7249988.

Created September 22, 2024. Last updated October 3, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 19, 2024

The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript

The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript by L.M. Montgomery and edited by Carolyn Strom Collins


The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript by L.M. Montgomery and edited and annotated by Carolyn Strom Collins was released by Nimbus Publishing in May 2024. L.M. Montgomery published The Blue Castle in 1926, and it was her first novel written for adults.

In The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript, Carolyn Strom Collins presents a full transcription of L.M. Montgomery's handwritten text of the novel. The book includes the edits and notes L.M. Montgomery made while composing the story, providing insight into her creative process. As one example, L.M. Montgomery initially named the protagonist Miranda before deciding to name her Valancy. In addition, the book displays images of select pages from Montgomery's original handwritten manuscript.


Here is the description of the book from Nimbus Publishing:

Published for the first time ever, the first draft of The Blue Castle exactly as L. M. Montgomery originally wrote it, with critical context from a leading Montgomery scholar.

Available for the first time ever, the original draft of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s The Blue Castle is presented with scribbled notes, character name changes, additions and deletions, and other pre-publication changes, offering fascinating new insight into the writing process of one of Canada’s most beloved writers.

First published in 1926, The Blue Castle is one of Montgomery’s few adult novels—and the only one set entirely outside of the author’s home province of Prince Edward Island. Montgomery scholar Carolyn Strom Collins provides a transcription of the text and notes from Montgomery’s handwritten manuscript, showing how they were integrated to form the published novel. (Major changes include changing the inspiring main character’s name from Miranda to Valancy, and Barney’s beloved cat from Jigglesqueak to Banjo.)

Edited with a keen eye to detail and deep respect for the writer’s creative process, and featuring high-quality photographs of select pages of the original manuscript, The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript is a necessary addition to any Montgomery lover’s collection.


Image credit:
Book cover of The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript.

Purchase and read The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript:

The Blue Castle: The Original Manuscript by L.M. Montgomery and edited by Carolyn Strom Collins

Created September 19, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 17, 2024

L.M. Montgomery's 150th Birthday Events in Norval, Ontario

Book covers of Maud: A Novel Inspired by the Life of L.M. Montgomery by Melanie J. Fishbane, The Kitchen by John Ota, and Maud of Green Gables by Janet Wilson

Over the coming months, there will be several events held in Norval, Ontario to celebrate L.M Montgomery's 150th birthday.

September 29, 2024 - Culture Days
Visitors are welcome at St. Paul's Anglican Church (14 Adamson St.), The Norval Studios and Gallery (Parish Hall, 16 Adamson St.), and the Caretaker’s Cottage (404 Draper St.), located next to the Manse where L.M. Montgomery once lived.

October 19, 2024 - Find my Fictional Maud: A Conversation with Melanie J. Fishbane
A book talk and signing with Melanie J. Fishbane, author of Maud: A Novel Inspired by the Life of L.M. Montgomery, will take place at 2 p.m. at the Norval Studios and Gallery.

November 23, 2024 - The Kitchen of L.M. Montgomery
A book talk and signing with John Ota, author of The Kitchen, will take place at 2 p.m in Parish Hall. Ota's book examines famous kitchens in history, and his talk will explore L.M. Montgomery's kitchen.

November 30, 2024 - Montgomery Christmas Sale
A Christmas sale will take place on L.M. Montgomery's 150th birthday. St. Paul’s Anglican Church and St. Elias The Prophet Ukranian Church (10193 Heritage Rd.) will host church bazaars from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Janet Wilson, author of Maud of Green Gables, will have a book signing at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. The Norval Studios will be open for shopping on November 30th and December 1st from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Read more about these events at Halton Hills Today.


Image credit:
Book covers of Maud: A Novel Inspired by the Life of L.M. Montgomery by Melanie J. Fishbane, The Kitchen: A Journey Through History in Search of the Perfect Design by John Ota, and Maud of Green Gables: How L.M. Montgomery's Anne Enchanted the World by Janet Wilson.

Reference:
Tanweer, Mansoor. (2024, September 11). Norval celebrating Lucy Maud Montgomery's 150th birthday. HaltonHillsToday.ca. Retrieved from: https://www.haltonhillstoday.ca/local-news/norval-celebrating-lucy-maud-montgomerys-150th-birthday-9473840

Created September 17, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 16, 2024

Gog and Magog Wallpaper

Annika Reed Studio Pair of Dogs Gog and Magog Wallpaper

The other day, I was browsing home decor at Anthropologie, and I was struck by a wallpaper design by Annika Reed Studio. It's called the "Pair of Dogs Wallpaper," and it made me think of L.M. Montgomery and her beloved china dogs.

When L.M. Montgomery visited her Grandfather Montgomery's home in Park Corner as a little girl, she would admire the pair of china dogs that sat on the mantel in his sitting room. These dogs were named Gog and Magog. Years later, after Montgomery got married, she bought her own pair of china dogs during her honeymoon.

Gog and Magog made their way from real life into fiction in Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables series. Like Montgomery, Anne Shirley admired a pair of china dogs with the same names. Eventually, Gog and Magog grace the mantel in Anne and Gilbert's home.

Below is a photograph of L.M. Montgomery posing with her cherished china dogs in Norval, Ontario on September 18, 1932.

L.M. Montgomery posing with her china dogs in Norval, Ontario on September 18, 1932

I wonder if L.M. Montgomery and Anne Shirley would like this wallpaper by Annika Reed Studio.

Annika Reed Studio Pair of Dogs Gog and Magog Wallpaper

The "Pair of Dogs Wallpaper" comes in a blue and black version too.

Annika Reed Studio Pair of Dogs Gog and Magog Wallpaper


Official Website
Annika Reed Studio - Pair of Dogs Collection

Image credits:

Annika Reed Studio Pair of Dogs Wallpaper at Anthropologie (brown and green, blue and black).

Photograph of L.M. Montgomery taken on September 18, 1932 from the Archives Of Ontario, Toronto, Canada. Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Norval,_Lucy_Maud_Montgomery_(14845819617).jpg

Created September 16, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 14, 2024

Article on Rediscovering Jane of Lantern Hill at JSTOR Daily

Screencapture of an article on L.M. Montgomery's Jane of Lantern Hill from JSTOR Daily

In an article entitled "L. M. Montgomery’s Plain Jane," which was published yesterday by JSTOR Daily, Emily Zarevich discusses L.M. Montgomery's overlooked novel Jane of Lantern Hill. Zarevich poses the question, "What’s it like to be the forgotten child of a celebrity?" Despite receiving positive reviews, Jane of Lantern Hill never gained the same recognition as L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables. While Anne has been celebrated and adapted numerous times for television, film, and stage, there is only one film adaptation of Jane of Lantern Hill directed by Kevin Sullivan in 1990.

Zarevich highlights some of the scholarship on Jane of Lantern Hill that highlights the novel's feminist undertones and drawing parallels between Jane's struggles and Montgomery's own life. Likewise, Jane has similarities to Anne Shirley. Both Anne and Jane are optimists, and both are "young women compelled to assert themselves in a stifling atmosphere that offers them no legal rights or agency."

Maybe it's time for a Jane re-read.


Image credit:
Screencapture from JSTOR Daily.

Reference:
Zarevich, Emily. (2024, September 13). L. M. Montgomery’s Plain Jane. JSTOR Daily. Retrieved from: https://daily.jstor.org/l-m-montgomerys-plain-jane/

Created September 14, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 13, 2024

Anne of Green Gables Exhibit at the Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum

Anne of Green Gables Exhibit at the Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum

The Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum in Japan is currently holding an exhibit on Anne of Green Gables. In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of Lucy Maud Montgomery's birth, the exhibit celebrates how Anne Shirley lived a bright and positive life despite facing many hardships. L.M. Montgomery's story brought joy and strength to readers around the world.

Alongside the Anne of Green Gables exhibit, the museum has a second exhibit featuring "German Forest" landscape paintings.

The two exhibits opened on September 4, 2024 and will run through December 2, 2024. The museum is located at Wakuden no Mori, 764 Tani, Kumihama-cho, Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture 629-3559.

Official Website

Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum

Image credit:

Artwork featured at the Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum.

Created September 13, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 11, 2024

New Memorial Bench Placed at The Site of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Cavendish Home on World Suicide Prevention Day

Memorial Bench at The Site of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Cavendish Home in Recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day


Yesterday, a memorial bench was placed at The Site of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Cavendish Home in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day. You can watch a video of the unveiling at CBC News. Several people are interviewed, including Philip Smith (former chair of the L.M. Montgomery Institute), Julia Ramsay (Canadian Mental Health Association - Prince Edward Island Chapter), and David Macneill of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Homestead Site.

The bench was placed in recognition of those we have lost to suicide, and it provides a place for reflection and healing. It is located under the old apple tree that Montgomery wrote about in her journals and next to the homestead where she grew up. L.M. Montgomery died by suicide at the age of 67. She and her husband both faced mental challenges throughout their lives.

Inscribed on the bench is a quote from Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery: "Dear old world, you are very lovely, and I am glad to be alive in you."

It is a fitting memorial at a meaningful location. I hope the bench promotes more openness and communication about suicide.


Image credit:
Screenshot of CBC News Video.

Reference:
Bench at L.M. Montgomery homestead unveiled on World Suicide Prevention Day. (2024, September 10). CBC News. Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6505973

Created September 11, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 10, 2024

Marilla Cuthbert and Darth Vader

Colleen Dewhurst and James Earl Jones in Hamlet in 1972

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away....

Marilla Cuthbert and Darth Vader fell in love. They adopted a young orphan named Anne Shirley, and even though she was not a boy, they decided to keep her. Anne grew up to be the most powerful Jedi of all, entirely because she was a girl.

Well, not really, but that's what I imagined earlier today when I saw a photograph of Colleen Dewhurst, who played Marilla Cuthbert in Anne of Green Gables, and James Earl Jones, who gave voice to Darth Vader in Star Wars. This photograph was taken when these two talented actors starred in a production of Hamlet in 1972 in New York City's Central Park. Colleen Dewhurst played Gertrude and James Earl Jones played Claudius.


Image credit:

Billy Rose Theatre Division, The New York Public Library. (1972). Colleen Dewhurst and James Earl Jones in publicity for the stage production Hamlet. Retrieved from https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/c91c5430-1183-0130-f059-58d385a7b928.

Created September 10, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 06, 2024

Anne of Green Gables Retelling by Nosy Crow Classics

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery adapted by Katherine Woodfine and illustrated by Isabelle Follath

L.M. Montgomery's classic story Anne of Green Gables was adapted for young readers by Katherine Woodfine and illustrated by Isabelle Follath. Published on September 3, 2024 by Nosy Crow, the retelling is 96 pages long and geared toward children ages 7–10.

This is the third book in the Nosy Crow Classics series. The series also includes Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows abridged by Lou Peacock and illustrated by Kate Hindley and Animal Tales from India: Ten Stories from the Panchatantra by Nikita Gill and illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat.

Here's a look inside the book that shows an illustration of Anne Shirley and the text at the end of Chapter 1 and beginning of Chapter 2. I think the illustrations are really charming.

Page spread from Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery adapted by Katherine Woodfine and illustrated by Isabelle Follath Here is the book's description from Nosy Crow Classics:

When a spirited and imaginative 11-year-old orphan named Anne moves to Avonlea, she can’t wait to see the home she’s always dreamed of. And it’s perfect! Green Gables is a beautiful farmhouse, set among the summer flowers of Prince Edward Island.

But Anne quickly realizes her dream is too good to be true. There has been a terrible mistake and her new family—gentle Matthew and his stern sister Marilla—were expecting someone quite different. With her cheer, her imagination, and even her mischievousness, Anne is a welcome breath of fresh air . . . but will she succeed in enchanting Matthew and Marilla? One thing’s for sure, there is never a dull moment when Anne is around.

Featuring high-end finishes, including a foil-inlaid cloth binding, textured jacket, and ribbon bookmark, Anne of Green Gables is a timeless gift book for every child to enjoy and treasure. Listen to the free Stories Aloud audiobook— just scan the QR code on the back cover to hear the story read aloud!


Image credit:
Cover of Anne of Green Gables by Nosy Crow Classics.

Purchase and read Anne of Green Gables by Nosy Crow Classics:

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery adapted by Katherine Woodfine and illustrated by Isabelle Follath

Created September 6, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

September 05, 2024

A September day on Prince Edward Island...

A quote about a September day on Prince Edward Island by L.M. Montgomery in Anne of Avonlea.

"A September day on Prince Edward Island hills; a crisp wind blowing up over the sand dunes from the sea; a long red road, winding through fields and woods..."
-L.M. Montgomery
Anne of Avonlea

Read more quotes by L.M. Montgomery.

Image credit:

Photograph by World of Anne Shirley.

Purchase and read Anne of Avonlea and the Anne of Green Gables series:

Anne of Avonlea by L.M. Montgomery Anne of Green Gables Book Set by L.M. Montgomery


Created September 5, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

August 29, 2024

William Shatner on Anne of Green Gables

William Shatner Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek and Megan Follows as Anne Shirley in Anne of Green Gables

I have such fun discovering Anne of Green Gables fans around the world. Sometimes, they are even out there in the far reaches of the galaxy.

William Shatner is a Canadian actor best known for portraying Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek. He has had a long career as an actor, author, musician, and director, and in 2021, he flew into space in real life in a Blue Origin capsule.

Yesterday, I learned that he's a fan of Anne of Green Gables through an amusing exchange on Twitter/X.

@AaronBillard asked William Shatner: "@WilliamShatner Have you ever been invited to play Anne of Green Gables? I feel like there’s more to explore with that character. It needs the Shatner treatment."

@WilliamShatner responded: "In my heart of hearts I cherish the day Matthew and Marilla invited me to stay I even thought they had ordered a boy."

William Shatner talking about Anne of Green Gables on Twitter on August 28, 2024.

He clearly knows Anne of Green Gables well. In searching through William Shatner's Twitter history, I learned that this isn't the first time that he has mentioned Anne Shirley.

On August 11, 2020, @ABlenkey wrote to William Shatner saying: "Just recently followed you and I’m glad I did. You are like a breath of fresh air in this echo chamber nightmare called twitter."

@WilliamShatner responded: "I’m just like Anne of Green Gables ...don’t tell Marilla!😝"

William Shatner talking about Anne of Green Gables on Twitter on August 11, 2020.

On December 5, 2019, @MartissJ wrote to William Shatner asking for help to save the Anne with an E TV series: "@WilliamShatner help?! #reneweannewithane #SaveAnneWithAnE"

@WilliamShatner responded: "But if you call me Anne, please call me Anne with an 'e'. - Anne Shirley 😉👍🏻"

William Shatner talking about Anne of Green Gables on Twitter on December 5, 2019.

Going back a little farther in time, on January 3, 2017, one of the Property Brothers @MrDrewScott tagged William Shatner saying: "Which celeb should I do a fun social collab with next? @davidblaine @HaylieDuff @WilliamShatner"

@WilliamShatner responded with a roll eyes saying: "🙄 What makes him think we want to "collab" with him?"

@MrDrewScott responded: "I read your diary. I know all your secrets😉"

To which, William Shatner retorted: "Diary? Who are you Anne of Green Gables? 🙄"

William Shatner mentions Anne of Green Gables on Twitter on January 4, 2017.

I could probably find more instances of William Shatner mentioning Anne of Green Gables if I kept digging for them, but I'm already convinced that he's a true fan.


Reference:
William Shatner's Twitter/X Account

Image credits:
Left: Photograph of William Shatner by Santiago Felipe/Getty from People Magazine.
Right: Photograph of Megan Follows as Anne Shirley in Anne of Green Gables © Sullivan Entertainment.

Created August 29, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

August 28, 2024

Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill

Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill by Catherine Little and illustrated by Sae Kimura

Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill is a children's book by Catherine Little and beautifully illustrated by Sae Kimura that was published by Plumleaf Press on August 1, 2024. Set in Toronto after WWI, the book tells the story of a young girl named Anne who loves her local library and books by L.M. Montgomery. Anne grows excited when Montgomery visits her town.

The book is 32 pages long and geared toward children ages 6–10. Catherine Little is a teacher and writer, who lives in Toronto, Ontario. While reading L.M. Montgomery's journals, she learned that Montgomery had once visited her neighborhood in Toronto. This knowledge inspired her to write this book. Sae Kimura is an artist and illustrator who is from Japan and moved to Toronto in 2011.

Here is the book's description from Plumleaf Press:

Growing up in the shadow of the Great War, Anne finds comfort in her neighbourhood library, where she loses herself in books, often imagining herself as part of the story. She particularly loves the books of L.M. Montgomery — and her imagination really takes off when she learns her beloved author is in town.


Image credit:
Cover of Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill by Plumleaf Press.

Purchase and read Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill:

Anne of the Library-on-the-Hill by Catherine Little and illustrated by Sae Kimura

Created August 28, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

August 16, 2024

In the Time of Maud

In the Time of Maud event at the Orwell Corner Historic Village

In celebration of L.M. Montgomery's 150th birthday this year, the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation is presenting an immersive event called "In the Time of Maud" at the Orwell Corner Historic Village. Visitors can take part each Thursday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm through the end of August 2024. The Orwell Corner Historic Village is located at 98 Macphail Park Road in Vernon, PE Canada.

A costumed guide leads the participants through the historic village. Visitors can participate in historical activities, such as writing postcards with a fountain pen and learning the waltz. Participants can see the farm animals at the village and enjoy a carriage ride. The experience also includes afternoon tea and a wagon ride along a route that L.M. Montgomery traveled back in 1910.


Website:
In the Time of Maud

Image Credit:
"In the Time of Maud" event poster.

Reference:

In the Time of Maud a trip to the past. (2024, August 14). Government of Prince Edward Island. Retrieved from: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/news/in-the-time-of-maud-a-trip-to-the-past.

Created August 16, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

August 15, 2024

The Island Hymn

Photograph of handwritten pages of The Island Hymn by L.M. Montgomery at the Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Canada, photograph copyright World of Anne Shirley

In 1908, before she was famous for writing Anne of Green Gables, L.M. Montgomery penned the patriotic song "The Island Hymn" for her home province, Prince Edward Island. Today, the song is the island's official provincial anthem.

The creation of the hymn was inspired by Professor Harry Watts from the Charlottetown School of Music. He envisioned a patriotic song that could capture the spirit of the island and invited Montgomery, already admired for her poetry and short stories, to write the lyrics. At the time, she was also serving as the organist at the Cavendish Presbyterian Church. Montgomery took up the task, crafting a three-stanza hymn set to the tune of "God Save the King" just months before the publication of her soon-to-be international bestseller, Anne of Green Gables. Her lyrics were set to music composed by Lawrence W. Watson.

Today, L.M. Montgomery's handwritten lyrics can be viewed at the Green Gables Heritage Place along with correspondence related to the hymn.

In 2010, over a century later, "The Island Hymn" was officially declared the provincial anthem of Prince Edward Island. A French version of the song was written by Raymond J. Arsenault. The song now stands as a timeless symbol of her love for and pride in the island.

L.M. Montgomery's lyrics are as follows:

The Island Hymn

Fair Island of the sea,
We raise our song to thee,
The bright and blest;
Loyally now we stand
As brothers, hand in hand,
And sing God save the land
We love the best.

Upon our princely Isle
May kindest fortune smile
In coming years;
Peace and prosperity
In all her borders be,
From every evil free,
And weakling fears.

Prince Edward Isle, to thee
Our hearts shall faithful be
Where'er we dwell;
Forever may we stand
As brothers, hand in hand,
And sing God save the land
We love so well.


World of Anne Shirley's Anne of Green Gables Travel Guide Banner


Official Websites:

Provincial Anthem. Government of Prince Edward Island.

Location:
Green Gables Heritage Place
PE-13, Cavendish, PE C0A 1M0, Canada

Map of Green Gables Heritage Place by OpenStreetMap

Image credits:
Photographs by World of Anne Shirley.
Map copyright OpenStreetMap.

References:
Provincial Anthem. Government of Prince Edward Island. Retrieved from: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/provincial-anthem


Created August 15, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

August 13, 2024

Summer in the Land of Anne

Book cover of Summer in the Land of Anne by Elizabeth Rollins Epperly and illustrated by Carolyn M. Epperly

Summer in the Land of Anne is a children's book by Elizabeth Rollins Epperly and illustrated by watercolor artist Carolyn M. Epperly. Elizabeth Rollins Epperly was the first female president of the University of Prince Edward Island, and she founded of the L.M. Montgomery Institute at the university. She has published many scholarly books on L.M. Montgomery’s writings as well as her scrapbooks and photography. She expanded into writing about L.M. Montgomery for children with Summer in the Land of Anne, which is her first children’s book.

Here is the book's description from Acorn Press:

Six-year-old Elspeth’s mother has a surprise in store for her daughters. She’s taking Elspeth and her eleven-year-old sister on a surprise vacation. When she starts reading Anne of Green Gables aloud to the girls, they catch on–they’re going to Prince Edward Island!

Elspeth proudly dons her Anne hat on the ferry, ready to explore the Land of Anne. Although she knows she’s really visiting Lucy Maud Montgomery?s house, she feels like she recognizes everything from the books and is thoroughly enchanted. At first devastated that Montgomery’s first house was torn down by Montgomery’s uncle, Elspeth sees signs of life–chipmunks living in the old cellar.

Elspeth’s imagination is ignited. No longer satisfied with pretending to be Anne, Elspeth is instead inspired to become more like Montgomery: famous writer Elspeth of Cavendish, writing about the world she loves.

Summer in the Land of Anne is a celebration of the books we love and all the ways they inspire us.


Image credit:
Cover of Summer in the Land of Anne by Acorn Press.

Purchase and read Summer in the Land of Anne:

Summer in the Land of Anne by Elizabeth Rollins Epperly and illustrated by Carolyn M. Epperly

Created August 13, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

July 11, 2024

A Nod to Maud Events Celebrating L.M. Montgomery's 150th Birthday in Leaskdale, Ontario

A Nod to Maud Events Celebrating L.M. Montgomery's 150th Birthday in Leaskdale, Ontario

The Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario (LMMSO) is celebrating L.M. Montgomery’s 150th birthday with special “A Nod to Maud” events throughout 2024. Following L.M. Montgomery's wedding, she and her husband Ewen moved to Leaskdale, Ontario, a town located north of Uxbridge. They lived there in the Leaskdale Manse for 15 years.

Check the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario’s website for updates to their "A Nod to Maud” calendar of events.

Here are some of the highlights:

Throughout July and August, the LMMSO will hold their annual Summer Luncheon Teas at the Historic Leaskdale Church.

June 15, 2024 - Gardens of Uxbridge Tour.

July 21, 2024 - Downtown Summer Social - Actors dressed as Anne of Green Gables and Lucy Maud Montgomery will be at various locations in downtown Uxbridge and at the Farmer’s Market to meet fans and pose for photos. There will be an Anne of Green Gables look-a-like contest at Blue Heron Books and special displays in storefront windows. For more of the events, see this article by the Uxbridge Times-Journal.

August 15, August 17, and August 18, 2024 - The LMMSO will present a one-woman play called Maud of Leaskdale starring Jennifer Carroll as L.M. Montgomery at the Historic Leaskdale Church. On August 15th, attendees can enjoy dinner theatre beginning at 6:00 pm featuring a menu chosen from Maud’s time for $60. On August 17 and 18th at 3:00 PM, attendees can see the matinee show for $25.

November 30, 2024 - Maud’s Birthday Party in Leaskdale.

December 8, 2024 - The finale of "A Nod to Maud" includes a skating party at the Uxbridge Arena and cupcakes for all.


Official Website:
The Official Website of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario

Image credit:
Poster for "A Nod to Maud" from The Official Website of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario

References:
A 150th birthday party: Uxbridge celebrates Lucy Maud Montgomery on July 21. (2024, July 13). Uxbridge Times Journal. Retrieved from: https://www.durhamregion.com/things-to-do/a-150th-birthday-party-uxbridge-celebrates-lucy-maud-montgomery-on-july-21/article_86d97a65-d538-5fc4-b588-41b989e879ce.html.

Boyce, Conrad. (2024, July 19). Huge ‘nod to Maud’ happening with festivities this weekend. Penticton Herald. Retrieved from: https://www.pentictonherald.ca/spare_news/article_77417c4c-1ff3-595a-8b32-6c0dad73eb17.html.

Uxbridge marking 150th birthday of Lucy Maud Montgomery. (2024, July 10). Durham Post. Retrieved from: https://durhampost.ca/uxbridge-marking-150th-birthday-of-lucy-maud-montgomery.

Created July 11, 2024. Last updated July 19, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

June 27, 2024

All the wealth of June

Quote about the wealth of June by L.M. Montgomery in Mistress Pat.

"It's a waste of time to go to bed too early on moonlight nights. And all the wealth of June is ours, no matter how poor we may be..."
-L.M. Montgomery
Mistress Pat

Read more quotes by L.M. Montgomery.

Image credit:
Photograph by World of Anne Shirley.

Purchase and read the Pat of Silver Bush series:

Pat of Silver Bush by L.M. Montgomery Mistress Pat by L.M. Montgomery


Created June 27, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com

June 26, 2024

Royal Canadian Mint Unveils New Coin Celebrating L.M. Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables

Royal Canadian Mint Unveils New Coin Celebrating L.M. Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables

Today, the Royal Canadian Mint unveiled a new $1 coin that celebrates L.M. Montgomery as Canada's literary icon. The unveiling took place in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island at the Green Gables Heritage Place, the location that inspired L.M. Montgomery's most famous novel Anne of Green Gables. The release celebrates the 150th anniversary of L.M. Montgomery's birth in 1874.

This coin is the first circulation coin to honor an author. The new loonie will be entering circulation across Canada tomorrow June 27, 2024.

Royal Canadian Mint Unveils New Coin Celebrating L.M. Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables

The Royal Canadian Mint launched a beautiful webpage today to announce the coin. It includes biographical information on L.M. Montgomery, the beautiful collages featured in this post, as well as information on the coin's artist and design.

According to the Royal Canadian Mint website:

"Not many Canadian authors have captured the hearts and imaginations of readers quite like L. M. Montgomery. Through her beloved stories and characters, the creator of the internationally-acclaimed Anne of Green Gables has transported millions of readers, over many generations, to the little province she called home.

One of Canada’s most enduring and endearing cultural figures, Montgomery is an icon who continues to impart a lasting impression. This year, we honour her brilliant imagination and exceptional talent with a commemorative $1 circulation coin—a tribute to her life’s work."

The coin's artwork is by Brenda Jones. She's an artist from Prince Edward Island who has a connection to Anne of Green Gables. According to a "fun fact" posted on the Royal Canadian Mint website, her grandparents owned the Green Gables house.

The coin features an image of L.M. Montgomery holding a fountain pen, with a manuscript and inkwell nearby. Below her portrait is her signature and cat icon. To the left is an image of Anne Shirley looking towards patchwork quilt fields representing Prince Edward Island.

Royal Canadian Mint Unveils New Coin Celebrating L.M. Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables
It's a beautiful coin. I can't imagine they'll remain in circulation long. Anne fans might just pocket them all.


Official Websites:
L.M. Montgomery Literary Icon at the Royal Canadian Mint
Behind the Design: L. M. Montgomery Commemorative $1 Circulation Coin

Image credits:
Images and collages by the Royal Canadian Mint.

Created June 26, 2024.
© worldofanneshirley.com