The Story

Anne of the Island follows our favorite redhead as she trades the green fields of Avonlea for the halls of Redmond College. She moves into a charming, if slightly ramshackle, house called Patty's Place with her dearest friends. The story tracks her four years there, filled with the kind of adventures you can only have in your early twenties: botched proposals from overly dramatic suitors, scrabbling to pay rent, and pulling all-nighters before exams. Woven through it all is her long, complicated dance with Gilbert Blythe, who has grown from the boy who pulled her hair into a steady, kind man patiently waiting for her to see what's been in front of her all along.

Why You Should Read It

This book is Montgomery's love letter to female friendship and self-discovery. Anne's bond with Priscilla, Stella, and especially the wonderfully practical Phil is the heart of the story. Their shared house is a sanctuary, and their support for each other feels incredibly modern. I also love how honestly it portrays Anne's uncertainty. She's brilliant and imaginative, but she's also stubborn and scared of messing up a perfect friendship by turning it into romance. Watching her figure out what she truly wants—not what a storybook says she should want—is deeply satisfying.

Final Verdict

If you've ever felt a little lost while trying to 'find yourself,' this book is for you. It’s perfect for fans of the previous Anne books, obviously, but also for anyone who enjoys a warm, character-driven story about growing up. It’s a comforting read that still manages to ask big questions about love, ambition, and where you call home. Keep the kettle ready—you'll want a cup of tea while you dive in.