10 Books Like Anne of Green Gables
Ever dreamt of living in a world painted with vibrant descriptions, where a fiery redhead named Anne Shirley brings sunshine and laughter into everyone’s life?
If “Anne of Green Gables” left you yearning for more heartwarming stories, whimsical adventures, and characters who stay with you long after the last page, then buckle up, bookworms, because we’re diving into some captivating reads that echo the same spirit of this beloved classic!
Books Like Anne of Green Gables
1. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This classic novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow from childhood into adulthood in Civil War-era America.
With their father away at war and their mother working to support the family, the sisters navigate the challenges of growing up, exploring themes of love, loss, and individuality. The story is celebrated for its warmth, realistic portrayal of family dynamics, and the distinct personalities and ambitions of each sister.
Major Similarities:
Like Anne of Green Gables, Little Women offers a detailed exploration of its characters’ growth and development over time, set against a backdrop of family and societal expectations. Both novels feature strong, independent female protagonists who defy the traditional roles of women in their respective eras.
The themes of friendship, ambition, and the transition from childhood to adulthood are central to both stories, making them resonate with readers looking for coming-of-age tales with heart and depth.
2. Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery
Another gem by L.M. Montgomery, this book introduces readers to Emily Byrd Starr, an orphan who goes to live with her stern relatives at New Moon Farm on Prince Edward Island. Emily’s vivid imagination and passion for writing help her navigate the challenges of new beginnings, friendships, and self-discovery.
The novel, the first in a series, beautifully captures the landscape of Prince Edward Island and the spirited nature of its protagonist.
Major Similarities:
Emily of New Moon shares many qualities with Anne of Green Gables, including its setting on Prince Edward Island, its orphaned protagonist with a vibrant imagination, and its focus on personal growth and the pursuit of dreams.
Both novels are written by L.M. Montgomery, ensuring a similar narrative style and thematic focus on the importance of nature, creativity, and resilience in the face of adversity.
3. Heidi by Johanna Spyri
This timeless story follows Heidi, an orphaned girl who is sent to live with her reclusive grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Heidi’s cheerful nature and love for the outdoors bring joy to her grandfather and the other inhabitants of the mountain, transforming their lives.
The novel explores themes of belonging, the healing power of nature, and the value of simplicity and genuine human connections.
Major Similarities:
Heidi and Anne of Green Gables both feature young, optimistic heroines who significantly impact the communities they join. The novels emphasize the beauty and therapeutic qualities of nature, as well as the importance of finding one’s place in the world.
Both stories celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the power of kindness and imagination.
4. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
This novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, a sickly and unloved 10-year-old girl who is sent to live with her uncle in Yorkshire after the death of her parents.
Her discovery of a locked, neglected garden on the estate, and her friendship with a local boy, Dickon, who helps her bring the garden back to life, transforms not only the garden but also Mary and her troubled cousin Colin.
The book is a testament to the healing power of nature and the possibility of renewal and transformation.
Major Similarities:
Like Anne of Green Gables, The Secret Garden focuses on themes of transformation and the redemptive power of nature and friendship. Both stories feature strong-willed young female protagonists who overcome adversity and, through their determination and care, positively affect the lives of those around them.
The emphasis on personal growth and the healing influence of the natural world are central themes in both books.
5. A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
This novel centers around Sara Crewe, a wealthy and intelligent girl who is sent to a boarding school in London. When her father dies, and his fortune is lost, Sara is demoted to a servant but maintains her dignity and generosity of spirit throughout her hardships.
Her imaginative nature and kindness eventually lead to an unexpected turn of fortune. The story is a poignant exploration of resilience, the power of imagination, and the impact of kindness.
Major Similarities:
A Little Princess shares with Anne of Green Gables the theme of a young girl facing and overcoming adversity through her strength of character, imagination, and kindness.
Both Sara and Anne transform their environments and the people around them with their optimistic outlooks and acts of generosity. The novels also highlight the importance of friendship, perseverance, and the belief in oneself, regardless of external circumstances.
6. Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter
This novel introduces Pollyanna Whittier, a young orphan who goes to live with her Aunt Polly in Vermont. Despite facing many challenges, Pollyanna’s cheerful disposition and game of finding something to be glad about in every situation transform the lives of those around her.
The story is a testament to the power of positivity and has inspired readers to look for the good in every circumstance.
Major Similarities:
Similar to Anne of Green Gables, Pollyanna features a young, optimistic protagonist whose infectious positivity affects everyone she meets. Both novels emphasize themes of gratitude, resilience, and the impact of a positive outlook on life.
The transformation of the community and the personal growth of the characters through adversity are central elements in both stories.
7. Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster
This novel is presented in epistolary form, telling the story of Jerusha “Judy” Abbott, an orphan who is sent to college by a mysterious benefactor whom she nicknames “Daddy-Long-Legs” based on his shadow.
Through her letters to him, readers witness Judy’s development from a skeptical orphan into an independent, insightful young woman. The book explores themes of self-discovery, the value of education, and the search for identity.
Major Similarities:
Like Anne of Green Gables, Daddy-Long-Legs features a strong, imaginative female protagonist who navigates the challenges of growing up with the support of a mentor figure.
Both novels explore the transformative power of education and the protagonist’s journey towards self-reliance and personal growth. The epistolary format of Daddy-Long-Legs offers an intimate glimpse into Judy’s thoughts and feelings, similar to Anne’s expressive nature.
8. The Railway Children by E. Nesbit
This story follows the adventures of Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis, three children who move to a house near the railway after their father is falsely imprisoned.
The children’s adventures and efforts to help their family and others in need showcase themes of courage, kindness, and the importance of community. The narrative is a heartwarming exploration of innocence and the impact of small acts of kindness.
Major Similarities:
The Railway Children shares Anne of Green Gables‘s emphasis on the innocence and resilience of youth, the importance of family and community, and a setting that plays a crucial role in the story’s development.
Both novels feature characters that grow and learn through their experiences, highlighting the value of compassion and understanding in overcoming life’s obstacles.
9. Anne of Avonlea by L.M. Montgomery
As the sequel to Anne of Green Gables, this book continues the story of Anne Shirley as she transitions from a student to a teacher in Avonlea. The novel follows Anne’s new adventures, her challenges in teaching, and her efforts to improve her community through the Avonlea Village Improvement Society.
Along the way, Anne’s imagination and spirit remain as vibrant as ever, even as she begins to navigate the complexities of adulthood.
Major Similarities:
Anne of Avonlea naturally shares all the beloved qualities of its predecessor, including its charming Prince Edward Island setting, a protagonist known for her vivid imagination and zest for life, and a focus on community, friendship, and personal growth.
Fans of Anne’s spirited nature in Anne of Green Gables will find more to love as she matures and continues to impact her world positively.
10. Jo’s Boys by Louisa May Alcott
This novel is the sequel to Little Men and follows the lives of the boys who attended Jo Bhaer’s school.
As adults, the characters face new challenges and adventures, exploring themes of ambition, love, and duty. The book provides a satisfying conclusion to the stories of characters introduced in Little Women and Little Men, showing their growth and the paths their lives have taken.
Major Similarities:
Like Anne of Green Gables, Jo’s Boys features characters that readers have seen grow up over a series of books. Both series emphasize the importance of education, personal integrity, and the impact of a nurturing environment on young minds.
The transition from youth to adulthood and the challenges that come with it are explored in depth, offering readers a chance to see their favorite characters navigate the complexities of life with grace and determination.
