Anne of Avonlea
#2 in Anne of Green Gables Series
What’s inside...
Anne of Avonlea is the delightful sequel to Anne of Green Gables. Now sixteen and a half, Anne Shirley is a school teacher in Avonlea, but still finds herself in various amusing predicaments. Between dealing with her freckles, a mischievous cow, and the antics of twins Dora and Davy, life remains eventful at Green Gables. Throughout, Anne's charming and earnest attempts to act more grown-up add humor and heart to the story. This edition is part of the Macmillan Collector's Library, a series of beautifully bound pocket-sized gift editions with ribbon markers, gilt edges, and high-quality paper. Includes exclusive material: In ‘The Backstory’ you can find out about going to school in Avonlea and learn all about the real Green Gables. Vintage Children’s Classics is a twenty-first century classics list aimed at 8-12 year olds and the adults in their lives. Discover timeless favourites from The Jungle Book and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to modern classics such as The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Character compass
Anne Shirley
Diana Barry
Miss Lavendar Lewis
Paul Irving
Gilbert Blythe
Rachel Lynde
Marilla Cuthbert
John Harrison
Stephen Irving
J. A. Harrison
Anthony Pye
Davy Keith
Dora Keith
Lavender Lewis
Charlotta the Fourth
Jane Andrews
Discussion points
How do Anne’s experiences at Avonlea school challenge her views on teaching and learning?
What similarities and differences do you see between your own school experiences and Anne’s?
In what ways do the characters in Avonlea support or challenge each other throughout the book?
How does Anne’s character develop from the beginning to the end of the story?
What lessons do you think Anne learns about friendship and community in this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal school experiences with Anne’s, fostering a deeper connection with the narrative.
Discuss the moral and ethical decisions Anne faces to help your child understand complex themes.
Point out moments in the book where characters show growth or learning to reinforce these concepts.
Use contrasts between characters’ behaviors and outcomes to discuss cause and effect, helping your child grasp the consequences of actions.
Invite your child to imagine alternative scenarios in the book to engage their creative thinking and predict possible outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Leadership
Explanation: Anne Shirley takes on the role of a schoolteacher in Avonlea, demonstrating responsibility and leadership as she manages her classroom and navigates the challenges that come with educating young children.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being responsible for their tasks and leading by example in group activities or team projects at school.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Throughout the book, Anne shows deep empathy and compassion towards others in the community, understanding their feelings and helping them overcome their struggles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate of others' feelings and situations, fostering kindness and supportiveness in their interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: The Value of Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: Anne's imaginative and creative spirit brings joy and color to her life and those around her, highlighting how creativity can positively influence everyday life.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity in problem solving and expressing themselves, enhancing their cognitive development and emotional well-being.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community and Relationships
Explanation: The book illustrates how relationships within a community can provide support and enrichment. Anne's interactions with the residents of Avonlea show the mutual benefits of social connections.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships, and contributing to their community, which can lead to a supportive and fulfilling environment.