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A review by bookishchristiana
Anne of Windy Poplars by L.M. Montgomery
funny
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
“But there is always a November space after the leaves have fallen when she felt it was almost indecent to intrude on the woods…for their glory terrestrial had departed and their glory celestial of spirit and purity and whiteness had not yet come upon them.” - L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Windy Poplars.
Anne of Windy Poplars is the fourth book in the Anne of Green Gables series, but the first one I hadn't already read. Growing up, I would re-read the first three books over and over; I absolutely adored everything about them! However, I always felt that Anne's graduation from university and engagement to Gilbert seemed like a natural end to the book series, and I never felt the need to continue on. In retrospect, I still believe my younger self was correct; the first three books do make up a perfect trilogy.
Anne of Windy Poplars is the fourth book in the Anne of Green Gables series, but the first one I hadn't already read. Growing up, I would re-read the first three books over and over; I absolutely adored everything about them! However, I always felt that Anne's graduation from university and engagement to Gilbert seemed like a natural end to the book series, and I never felt the need to continue on. In retrospect, I still believe my younger self was correct; the first three books do make up a perfect trilogy.
Following Anne's childhood and university life, book four encompasses her time at the Windy Poplars house during her engagement to Gilbert. While she continues her career as a teacher and waits for him to finish his medical qualifications before they get married, Anne's character development seems to have concluded. The story now focuses more on her interactions and adventures with the people she lives with and those nearby.
There are a few key characters like Rebecca Dew, Aunty Kate, and Aunt Chatty; these are the women Anne lives with at Windy Poplars, and they provide her with much entertainment, often involving their pet cat Dusty Miller. There are also the ever-present Pringles, the ruling family of the village, who try to make Anne's life miserable while she endlessly tries to win them over. Alongside various other cast members, small vignettes are painted of Anne's engaged life, making for a very cosy and relaxing read.
If you are looking for an engrossing plot and exciting times, I'd definitely stop earlier in the series (perhaps even just read the first one). But if you're looking for a cosy time before bed or a relaxing audiobook to listen to while doing something else (personally, I loved it as a crocheting companion), I'm sure you'll enjoy it. On the whole, this is my least favourite of Anne's series so far, but I still find value in it and am glad that I have finally read it.
Review coming for the next book in the series soon! - C x