Reviews

If I Couldn't Be Anne by Kallie George

geekwayne's review

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5.0

'If I Couldn't Be Anne' by Kallie George with illustrations by Genevieve Godbout is a picture book in a series of books about Anne Shirley, the protagonist of 'Anne of Green Gables.'

Anyone familiar with Anne Shirley knows she has a pretty large imagination. Here she imagines all the things she could be if she couldn't be Anne. She imagines herself as a gull, or a tightrope walker or a fancy lady, among other things.

I've enjoyed this series. Kallie George has a really good sense of the original story. The real star of this series are the gorgeous illustrations by Genevieve Godbout. I'm a fan of her style and it is on full display here.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

elizalavenza's review

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hopeful inspiring lighthearted

5.0

theshaggyshepherd's review

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5.0

If I couldn't be Anne // by Kallie George // illustrated by Genevieve Godbout

I didn't grow up with Anne but actually just read the books maybe a year or two ago. I loved them immediately though and was excited to see this little gem come out. The illustrations are beautiful and give the book such a fun and sweet feel, and the writing feels so... Anne! I was transported right back into the story. What a fun way to introduce young kids to this little girl's adventures!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

readsewknit's review

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4.0

I've enjoyed the renewed interest in Anne of Green Gables, from fresh biographies and a miniseries to new publications. There is something captivating about Anne's presence that continues to draw new readers.

If I Couldn't be Anne is a whimsical picture book from Anne's perspective as she dreams of the world around her and the ways she would engage with it if she were not Anne. Perhaps she'd be the wind, or the echoes, or the water. 

The simple words are filled with lush illustrations, and well-versed readers will recognize scenes and references to books. On one page, Anne discusses kindred spirits, on another, she bemoans red hair (but confesses that's a better fate than green hair). On yet another, Anne is laid out in a boat with her eyes closed.

For parents who relish Anne of Green Gables but have young children not yet ready to be introduced to the series, this is a lovely placeholder.

(I was given a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)

readingismagical's review

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4.0

Charming and sweet

mybooksandkidsbooks's review

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5.0

We were so excited to get these gorgeous Anne of Green Gables inspired books in the mail yesterday! Goodnight, Anne and If I Couldn’t Be Anne by Kallie George and illustrated by Genevieve Godbout are delightful. Full of imagination, fun and friends. The writing has a lovely rhythm that is perfect for reading out loud at bedtime, and the illustrations are simply beautiful.

Swipe to see some of our favourite pages. Thank you to @tundrabooks for these amazing books!

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allmadhere106's review

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4.0

For: Anne of Green Gables fans; readers wanting a book with whimsy.

Possible red flags: mentions horrid hair dying disasters and other such adventures.

msgabbythelibrarian's review

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4.0

All the beauty of Genevieve Godbout's illustrations.

All of the magic and whimsy of Anne with an E Shirley.

How I love Anne and the joy/zest for life that she had! Yes, she was a fictional character but oh, how I longed to be her own bosom friend. To walk around in puffy sleeves and have cherry cordial.

This book reminds the reader that nothing compares to the blessings in life <3

gigiinzim's review

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5.0

If you loved Anne of Green Gables and you want your child to love her as well, this is the place to start. This whimsical children's book introduces us to Anne, Anne with an E.

The story is as delightful as the original. The pictures are gorgeous. I am not sure who with love this book more the child or the parent.

This would also make a perfect baby shower or birthday gift!

The publisher made this book available via Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my honest review.

lanternhillbooks's review

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inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0