Anne of the Island

[Editor's Note: This is a combined review with BEFORE GREEN GABLES.]--Budge Wilson's prequel, BEFORE GREEN GABLES, which charts the first 11 years of Anne Shirley's life, completes the series by providing the details of Anne's past before she went to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Wilson's writing is just rich and emotive as Montgomery's, and Renée Raudman portrays a young Anne who believably grows in words and heart. In ANNE OF THE ISLAND, which takes place after GREEN GABLES, Anne is growing up. Appropriately, her voice has matured as much as her manner and viewpoint. She's composed, yet Raudman gives us nuances that remind of us her innocence and past conflicts. Also consistent are Raudman's excellent portrayals of the memorable minor characters from both books--from the alcoholic Mr. Thomas in the first book to the impulsive orphan, Davy, adopted by Marilla in the later story. S.W. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

In this third book in the renowned series about orphaned Anne Shirley, the heroine leaves Avonlea and begins Redmond College. Just as Anne remarks about the evening sunset and its magic, so this book is about the "moments of transformation" in her own life--from schoolmistress to college student, from Green Gables to Patty's Place, and from comrade to friend to love. Susan O'Malley sets a brisk pace to her narration. Once the listener becomes attuned, the details of Anne's college years unfold rapidly. The girlishness of the younger women is fresh and eager; the gossip of the older women is clipped yet incisive. Personalities emerge--Aunt Jamesina is dear and endearing, the owners of Patty's Place are eccentric, Gilbert is hurt yet true, and Anne is both distressed and exuberant. This recording is a treat. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine