The Anne of Green Gables Collection: Adapted for Younger Readers (16-Book Box Set) (Arcturus Retold Classics)
Arcturus Retold Classics Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This 16-book box set retells the original Anne of Green Gables story in a format designed for early and middle-grade readers. Samantha Newman keeps L. M. Montgomery’s beloved plot intact—an imaginative red-haired orphan is sent by mistake to live with the elderly Cuthberts on Prince Edward Island—but shortens sentences, lightens difficult vocabulary, and divides the narrative into sixteen slim, fully-illustrated volumes. Young readers follow Anne’s arrival at Green Gables, her misadventures at school, her deep friendship with Diana, her rivalry with Gilbert, and her growing sense of responsibility as she matures into a thoughtful teen who chooses family and community over personal ambition.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
512 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Anne Shirley
Gilbert Blythe
Diana Barry
Miss Stacy
Rachel Lynde
Matthew Cuthbert
Marilla Cuthbert
Discussion points
Why is imagination important to Anne?
How do Anne and Diana solve conflicts and stay friends?
What changes Anne’s feelings toward Gilbert?
Why does Anne decide to stay in Avonlea instead of going to university?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a "Lake of Shining Waters" drawing together to explore imagination.
Compare school life then and now to build historical context.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Imagination fuels problem-solving
Explanation: Anne re-names and re-imagines her world to cope with challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can create stories, drawings, or games to deal with boredom or stress.
Example Lesson: Honest mistakes can be forgiven
Explanation: Anne’s cordial accident ends with apologies and repaired friendship.
Real-World Application: Encourages kids to own up to errors and make amends.
Example Lesson: Hard work leads to achievement
Explanation: Anne studies diligently to earn a scholarship.
Real-World Application: Motivates setting goals and practising persistence in schoolwork.
Example Lesson: Family comes in many forms
Explanation: The Cuthberts and Anne form a loving, chosen family.
Real-World Application: Promotes acceptance of diverse family structures.
Example Lesson: Empathy builds community
Explanation: Anne’s care for Minnie May earns lasting goodwill.
Real-World Application: Shows kids the impact of helping neighbours and friends.