The daunting task of condensing such an epic work into this new format is handled well. The important moments of Anne's life are told well and work within the flow of the illustrations, frames and medium. The pages without words are expressive of either Anne's loneliness and isolation, or her inability to speak due to the grandeur and enjoyment of the moment. Or else, the silent moments are snipits of the life Anne has become accustomed to, silent walks through the woods, reading by a pile of pumpkins, watching the flowers bloom and the brook babble. The artwork reflects Anne's poetic soul, with wistful lines, simple details, vibrant colours and easy movement. I was so thoroughly immersed in this imagining of Anne, that I could not set the graphic novel down until I had finished reading the whole book. Anne is such a heartfelt character that you become immediately attached to, just as Matthew does on the long ride from the train station to Green Gables. Marilla, while hard and strict, shows her love in simple gestures (like accepting Anne's hand as they walked along the path). Matthew is a quiet soul, the opposite of Anne, but he finds comfort in her talking and in her actions. He is the first to show he loves her unconditionally. Anne and Diana bind their friendship through words, confidences, and touch. Always hugging, holding hands, and laughing together. Theirs is a true friendship, meant to last through all the hardships thrown at them. Gilbert Blythe is the young man who pushes her to better her education, to compete for top of class, and to follow her dreams to college. He wants to be friends, but she stubbornly refuses his offer of peace, marking her anger at Gilbert as the only darkness within Anne's ever colourful and bright soul. However, Anne's dislike is really born from an internal fondness for this boy who tugs her read hair and calls her Carrots. While the novel touches on her rivalry with Gilbert, the focus of the novel is really on her unwavering friendship with Diana and her budding family life with Marilla and Matthew. I highly recommend this graphic novel to both fans of Anne Shirley and those venturing to Green Gables for the very first time. You will not be disappointed by the writing, the beautiful artwork and the depiction of this well known red-headed, boisterous young woman (read: icon).
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