The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits

by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration Especially for Kindred Spirits
 
The Anne of Green Gables Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the theme of God’s love and faithfulness through the pages of the classic L. M. Montgomery novel, cherished by generations of readers. Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s redemptive plans for your life as His very own adopted daughter in Christ.
 
This beautiful 40-day devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, prayers, and discussion questions perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection. It’s perfect as a personal read or gift for a bosom friend!
 

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Devotional, Faith, Classics, Christian Non Fiction, Christian Living

224 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2020

About the author

Rachel Dodge is the bestselling author of the award-winning Anne of Green Gables Devotional, The Little Women Devotional, and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen. Rachel's newest book is The Secret Garden Devotional! Rachel teaches college English classes, gives talks at libraries, teas, and book clubs, and is a writer for the popular Jane Austen's World blog. She is passionate about encouraging and equipping women to grow closer to Jesus through prayer and the study of God's Word. A true kindred spirit at heart, Rachel enjoys books, bonnets, and ball gowns.

Reviews

[Monica H (TeaandBooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you an "Anne Fan?" I've loved Anne of Green Gables for many years so when I saw this new Anne of Green Gables Devotional from Rachel Dodge, I could not wait to get a copy.

The subtitle of The Anne of Green Gables Devotional is "A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits." This book is full of all my favorite Anne of Green Gables scenes, trivia and gorgeous illustrations. The book is relatively small, measuring approximately 5 by 7 inches in size. . .the perfect size to stick in your purse or book bag if you'd like to carry it along. There are 40 days worth of readings. Each reading starts with a Bible verse, goes on to the devotional message that includes scenes from the books, then a section that is written to help you apply the verses and readings personally and each day concludes with a prayer and another Bible verse. At the back of the book there is an author's note, an Anne glossary, and discussion questions. This beautiful Anne of Green Gables Devotional would be a great gift for any Anne lover and there is a presentation page at the front of the book for just such an occasion.

I can't say enough good things about The Anne of Green Gables Devotional l as an Anne fan. I like the Bible verses connected to the readings. I enjoyed how the author helped me reflect on what I read and also apply it to my life today. I adore the beautiful illustrations on the cover throughout the book from Jana Christy. I like how the book could be used for my own study and reflection while also being a great book to use with a group of kindred spirit ladies or young people. I would encourage every Anne fan to get a copy!

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishers. All opinions within this review are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional is absolutely beautiful both inside and out. As someone who grew up rereading my Anne of Green Gables books over and over again, and now has a daughter who does the same thing, this devotional has definitely found the right home with us.

I really like how the author has set up the devotions. There is a beginning verse and topic, then the author reminds the reader of a certain scene or situation in the book, with quotes from the story, that go along with that theme. The author does a very good job of pulling life lessons from the book and pointing to scripture and the way that God works in our lives.

Then, the author wraps the lesson up with a personal application section and a prayer. I like that I can pick up this devotional, be reminded of humorous or heart-warming scenes from the book, focus on how God wants to work in my life, and think of ways to apply what I have learned.

The artwork is absolutely gorgeous in this devotional and reminds me again of the whimsy of the beautiful story of Anne of Green Gables. I am so happy with this devotional and plan to give one to my daughter, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lover of Anne of Green Gables and everything related to Anne of Green Gables, I just had to get this devotional!!

Needless to say, I enjoyed it a lot! It was beautifully done. Not only is the cover so lovely, but the illustrations inside are as well. They’re very unique, colorful, and so pretty! I just loved them.

I loved how the author did a devotional for each chapter of the book. She really did it so well. With each chapter’s incident, she relates it to a verse or chapter in the Bible and how we can apply that to our lives. I thought that was so neat!! There’s actually a lot you can learn from Anne of Green Gables.

I think this book would make such a lovely gift, especially for Anne of Green Gables lovers. They will be so happy if you give them this (or if you give it to yourself!)
It’s pretty much a must for any fan. It would just look soo pretty on a shelf with your Anne books.😉

I’d recommend to not only Anne of Green Gables lovers, but also those who are hoping to read it. I think it would make such a great companionable read alongside the book.
Basically, I’d recommend this to anyone! There’s really no age limit in my opinion. I think children, preteens, teens, adults, everyone can take something away from these simple messages of truth! Rachel Dodge did a great job.💚

*I received an e-arc of this devotional from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my completely my own.

[Faith Mathewson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional was so sweet and the illustrations were adorable!

One thing I loved about this devotional was the reminder to focus on others. I feel like so many devotionals can focus on the worth of the reader without encouraging them to give that same message to others. With this devotional there was so much encouragement, the constant reminder of who we are in Christ and yet with every bit of encouragement there was the gentle reminder to make others feel loved. To remember that what you are going through, others are going through and they need the same love, encouragement, and reminders that you do.

Overall a very sweet, beautiful devotional for all ages and perfect for every Anne of Green Gables fan!

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Anne of Green Gables. I didn’t meet Anne Shirley until I was in my twenties, but we are became fast friends immediately. And I have visited her so often since that I have no qualms about claiming her as a kindred spirit. After reading Rachel Dodge’s The Secret Garden Devotional alongside Hodgson’s classic novel, I suspected that she might also be a kindred spirit. After reading The Anne of Green Gables Devotional alongside Montgomery’s masterpiece, I have no doubt of it. Both of the aforementioned devotionals added delight and insight and thoughtfulness to stories that I already loved, and Dodge accomplished this by relating both to the Greatest Story Ever Told. I enjoyed every single page of this little book, and it deepened the love I already had for Anne Shirley.

In addition to the devotional matching up with each chapter of Anne of Green Gables, there is also a prayer, personal application, and scripture for each day. Scattered throughout are darling little illustrations, highlighting some of the standout moments of the story. Finally, Dodge included a fun little appendix at the end with Anne’s thoughts on various topics and themes. It’s an utterly charming little book, as is the one Dodge penned to accompany The Secret Garden. After loving both of these so much, I ordered the last in the series (so far), The Little Women Devotional, and I have high hopes that it will actually improve my relationship with that particular classic. I hope Dodge pens more of these in the future, because they are treasures that I fully intend to revisit often.

A couple of side notes. First, there are audio versions of both this book and The Secret Garden Devotional that also include the book that inspired each in the same audiobook, with a chapter of the devotion following a chapter of the novel. These were both beautifully done, and I highly recommend them if you are more of an audiobook reader. Second, I experienced both of these devotional journeys with my mom, and that made the experience even more special. If you can, find someone to share the experience with, because it’s a joy!

[Mary Pauline M · Rating 5 out of 5]

( received complimentary e-book copy in exchange for review )

What a blessing this title has been to my devotional time! Very highly recommended no matter how long it may have been since you've read the stories. Also, a perfect gift for anyone you know who grew up on the stories. This devotional will be one that will be reached for time and time again.

[Barbara Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this. I used it every day and I felt like it was relatable even though it was meant to be set in Anne of Green Gables time. Simple and easy to use. I would purchase this as gifts for friends.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is soooo precious! If you are a fan of Anne of Green Gables, then you absolutely must get this devotional. It is priceless. Each devotion starts with a scripture, then a short passage from the beloved novel, with an application for your life today. Then a prayer and another scripture. It is just truly a wonderful devotion. I have a digital copy but I will buy the physical copy. It is so good.

*I received this book from Barbour Publishing through Net Galley and was not required to leave a review. I received no compensation and all opinions in this review are expressly my own.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always did love Anne of Green Gables books, but this one allowed me to see it in a new light as a positive book displaying Christian character and growth, and when I like something as much as that series, it is a wonderful gift to see it in a totally new way. I found the devotional to be encouraging, examining Anne of Green Gables, chapter by chapter, in light of the Bible, ending with a little prayer for each day.

[Aubree · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who doesn't often read devotionals, Rachel Dodge's writing has totally pulled me in! I first encountered her work when reading her Jane Austen devotional, and since I'm a big Jane Austen fan it totally spoke to me - not only did Jane's truths resonate, but the skillful application of theology on Dodge's part was amazing! As such, I was so excited when this Anne Devotional was announced!

Going through L.M. Montgomery's classic novel in 30 days, Dodge finds such sweet biblical truths in the book's pages! Whether I was having a good or bad day I always felt uplifted and encouraged when reading, finding parallels to both my and Anne's (quite dramatic) life. Supplemented by the most beautiful of illustrations, this sweet devotional definitely brought my both laughs and giggles :) I am so happy to have been blessed by Dodge's wonderful words, and am so excited to read her upcoming works!

The Anne of Green Gables Devotional is an easy 5-stars for me, and I so look forward to recommending it to my loved ones!

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a lovely little devotional with such gorgeous illustrations in it.

The devotional follows along each day with one chapter from the book Anne of Green Gables. Each day includes an illustration, a quote from the book, the authors thoughts from the chapter, a personal application, a prayer and Bible verses.

I will definitely treasure this book and look forward to reading the devotional and the book in the future with my daughter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[AnnaScott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional is absolutely precious. Anne of Green Gables is one of my all-time favorite books, and Rachel did an amazing job writing this corresponding devotional.

This book is a forty day devotional that follows Anne of Green Gables chapter by chapter. Each day would open up with a brief summary of what happened in the corresponding chapter, and then relate it back to a principle from the Bible. If I'm quite honest, I was a little skeptical about how well this could be done since - aside from mentions of church - Anne of Green Gables isn't an explicitly Christian book. Rachel did an incredible job making everything fit together seamlessly, and it simultaneously made me think about the Bible and Anne's story in a deeper way. The day ends with a section on practical application and a prayer. My favorite part of this book, though, were the sketches that were at the beginning of each chapter. They were so beautiful, and really brought the story to life.

The whole time I was reading this, I kept thinking how sweet it would be for a mom and daughter to do it together and/or with a group. The devotions were deep enough so that they impacted my life, but also straightforward enough that children could appreciate them as well. Plus, with the chapter summaries at the beginning, it was easy to follow along with the story even though I haven't re-read Anne of Green Gables in a few years.

My sole complaint is that there were a lot of direct quotes from Anne of Green Gables, so at times it took me back to my days of writing literary analysis papers. Overall, though, it was excellently done, and I would highly recommend it to all of my fellow fans of Anne of Green Gables.

I received a copy of this book for free from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own, and I am writing a voluntary review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne of Green Gables has always been one of my favorite reads and the movie is actually amazing as well. Imagine my surprise and delight to see this new book being offered up for review. I knew immediately that I had to get my hands on a copy.

This is a 40-day devotional book. You can read one each day or spread them out to once a week. Whichever you want to do. Personally, I might have just read the whole book through like a novel and then gone back and read one devotional entry per day after that. In my defence, I was very excited about this new book! It was like getting to see a friend that you’ve been separated from for years.

First, this book is gorgeous. Just look at that cover. Second, it really did not disappoint. I got to read scenes from the book but also Bible verses and a devotional. There is also a section that applies the devotional and verse to life.

In the back of the book, there is an Anne glossary, an author’s note, and also discussion questions. This would make a great group devotional if you wanted to get together with friends to read and discuss the entries.

I have to say that I highly recommend The Anne of Green Gables Devotional and I also am going to be keeping my copy on my shelf for years to come. This would be a great one to pass down to your children.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Sara Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Anne of Green Gables Devotional” by Rachel Dodge is a delightful devotional to accompany L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables” novel.

Each chapter in the devotional corresponds to a chapter in the original story about an orphan girl adopted by siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. Dodge’s devotional helps draw out spiritual and biblical lessons that can be found in the childhood classic.

Filled with delightful illustrations, the devotional helps remind us that God makes no mistakes, while being a “gentle allegory for God’s redemptive, adoptive plans for each of us.”

Each chapter in this devotional companion uses Bible verses, a brief devotion related to that day’s chapter from “Anne” and a prayer to relate to that chapter’s featured examples and references. Each passage relates what Anne is experiencing to both what we and Jesus Himself may experience, such as a feeling of abandonment.

“The Anne of Green Gables Devotional” is a great additional resource for any fan of Anne, allowing the reader to see this classic in a whole new way. This book would be appropriate for older children and adults, and could also be used by families (the author has created supplemental questions appropriate for younger children, available online). And as each devotional is brief, this can be completed fairly quickly each day.

Five stars out of five.

Barbour Books provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this little devotional! I am a long time lover of the Anne of Green Gables series and knew I had to check this out once I saw it! This book definitely lived up to my expectations! The daily devotionals have a related scripture, quote from the book, discussion of that quote/how it applies to the story, a personal application to the reader's life and then a prayer for the day. It was such an enjoyable read and is definitely one that I will come back to again and again, just like the AOGG series!

The kindle version I have had a wonky picture format, so what I am guessing are gorgeous pictures, were broken up on my screen. However, I did not take off stars as I enjoyed the book so much and it may just be in the ARC copy that I received!

[Kailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love devotionals and love when the are a companion to a favorite book! This Anne of Green Gables devotional is so good! Each entry is so perfect! I love how the author tied together bits from the story with scripture. I really loved the beautiful graphics! This book is perfect for fans of Anne of Green Gables and would be a great gift for kindred spirits!



I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Kier Scrivener · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a truly incredible companion and devotional for Anne of Green Gables fans, convicting, encouraging, deeply grounded in scripture and an understanding of Anne and her world.

[Nola Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gem of a devotional book. The author has taken key themes from 'Anne of Green Gables' and built 40 Biblical reflections around them (one for each of the 38 chapters in the book, plus two concluding ones). Each reflection is a little longer than typical devotions, so they're really like short chapters. Each one starts with a quote from the book and a reflection on that theme, interwoven with scripture. Each chapter concludes with a prayer and application. Difficult themes, such as abandonment and sense of belonging, are dealt with sensitively; and there is a lot of heart and depth to the messages. Even though Anne was first published in 1908, the universal themes still resonate today.

There are also some beautiful images in the book, though I felt I didn't get the full impact of these, as I read the pre-release copy on Kindle and it took half a dozen or so swipes to scan each picture. I also didn't realise there were extra discussion questions to go with each chapter until I got to the end. For both of these reasons, I think the print version of the book would be better.

Although most people would be able to get something out of this devotional, it is obviously geared more towards fans of Anne and probably would be more suitable for women and girls. If you're a Christian who loves Anne, or you're an Anne fan who is open to spiritual issues, you will find much to enjoy in this book.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[E.F. Buckles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been reading through all of this author's literature-inspired devotionals and not only are they physically beautiful books, they're spiritually beautiful as well. I love how each day connects an event from the fiction book with something in the Bible. Often, it's connecting a lesson the characters learned with Scripture. I felt that Anne of Green Gables worked especially well for this since faith is addressed multiple times in the book.

I personally read my devotionals before bed and found this a very soothing one to help me have my mind on Scripture before going to sleep. There were several times that it felt like God worked out the timing for me to read a certain one at just the right time to address something that was going on in my life at the time.

I highly recommend this devotional.

[Jessica Lawler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this book was simply delightful! It far exceeded my expectations in terms of the the quality of the writing and the depth of the devotions. I am a huge Anne fan and this sweet “chapter-by-chapter companion for kindred spirits” was such a precious and encouraging book to read each day during my quiet time with the Lord. I loved revisiting the story, looking at the beautiful illustrations, and reading through the biblical application the author pulled from the major plot points and characters. I gave it to a “bosom friend” for Christmas and we read it together. If you need a little more Anne in your life and are looking for an uplifting read, so yourself a favor and buy this one!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

My mom loves Anne of Green Gables, and when I heard about this devotional, I thought it might make a good gift for her. I wanted to read it first, but I couldn't find it at any libraries, which is unusual; I have access to a lot of libraries and can get ahold of nearly any book. So I planned to pick it up from a local bookstore, but I kept finding myself too busy to get there.

Then last week while running around, I unexpectedly found myself passing the bookstore, and I decided to snatch the opportunity to stop in. I even caught them during a sale. And since my parents were going away for a few days, I set aside another book (that I'm not really enjoying anyway) in favor of reading this over the weekend when I wouldn't have to hide it from my mom. Because yeah, I rarely read daily devotionals as slowly as you're supposed to.

I was afraid this book would be the kind of pure fluff that tries so hard to be uplifting it becomes heretical and meaningless. It's not. Though this book is not intended to be deep theology (and though there was an occasional point I disagreed with), Rachel Dodge takes sin and suffering seriously and writes with depth and compassion. I especially appreciated the short but thoughtful prayers included with each entry. And the occasional illustrations are beautiful.

I cried through quite a few of these devotions. I've had a very stressful week or so, and this book was comforting and encouraging when I needed both. I'm glad I read it and grateful for the perfect timing God arranged.

[Piscesbambina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet little devotional, perfect for fans of Anne Shirley, and though it has a Christian focus it would still be a lovely read for anyone welcoming small meditations on life.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Anne Of Green Gables Devotional by Rachel Dodge is the most beautiful book of forty devotions. You do not have to have read Anne Of Green Gables in order to appreciate this book but if you have, you will bring greater understanding and appreciation to the wonderful Anne Of Green Gables books.
Each day has a quote from Anne Of Green Gables as a header, the meaning of which is extrapolated over a couple of pages. Each devotional is full of godly lessons for us all.
Every chapter ends with a personal application and a prayer.
There are also many beautiful illustrations within the book.
The book is suitable for ages eight to adult. Anyone of any age will appreciate the beauty, depth and simplicity of this book. I intend to revisit this work of great beauty again and again. It is by my Bible and I have started working through it again.
This book would be a welcome addition to any bedside table. Start the day with a godly devotional and not the news.

[Rachel DeVaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up watching Anne of Green Gables many many times so I was thrilled when I got a chance to read an advanced e-copy of this devotional book.

Each day has a pretty watercolor Anne of Green Gables picture, a snippet of a scene from the fictitious story, scripture references, personal application and a prayer for the day. This devotional was beautiful and very well written and I really enjoyed looking thru it.

I ended up purchasing a copy of this devotional since the pictures were hard to enjoy on my kindle because of the ebook formatting.

This devotional can be used daily or you can pick and choose what passages to read. If you are an Anne of Green Gables book or movie lover like me, I guarantee you will enjoy this sweet Christian devotional book!

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a HUGE Fan of Anne of Green Gables, both the books and TV Series. I
was super excited to have the chance to read this devotional.

Rachel Dodge has taken the Anne of Green Gables book and created a
wonderful Devotional Book. The 40 Day Devotional takes a Chapter by
Chapter look at the Anne of Green Gables book and is very encouraging.
Each day includes an illustration, a quote from the book, the authors thoughts
from the chapter, a personal application, a prayer and Bible verses.

I am an avid fan of devotional books, using them daily and switching up
when I finish one. I have to say the format and style of this devotional
is one of my favorite of all time. This devotional make a WONDERFUL
gift for Anne of Green Gables fans, especially the Tweens and Teens
in your life. I HIGHLY recommend this Devotional.

[Katherine Bartlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever read Anne of Green Gables or watched the movie, then this devotional is for you! I vividly remember my mom forcing me to watch Anne of Green Gables when I was a kid. Yes, forcing me. Let's face it, the movie wasn't my cup of tea and I had no interest in it when I was in the 4th grade. But she loved it so much - probably much more since I have red hair myself. Well even though I didn't like it back then, as I got older, I fell in love with it surprisingly enough. After watching the movie for the first time with my own daughter, I instantly said, "We have to watch the sequel!" My daughter even has the series of books in her room and we've read the first book together.

So fast forward to this devotional. It is a precious companion to the first book, Anne of Green Gables. It is 40 days long, has original artwork and is based on God's love and faithfulness. Each of the 40 days corresponds with a chapter in the book which is perfect if you're reading the book at the same time. And I really love how it embodies the theme that we are all God's adopted daughters. This is such a precious read for anyone who loves the Anne of Green Gables series. And it would make a wonderful gift to a best friend too.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic read, evidently written by someone in love both with the Word and with Anne of Green Gables. Perfect for fans of the books and movies alike (or newbies to either/both)!

I read a handful of the Anne books growing up, but don't remember a thing about them. Picking this book up prompted me to restart the series (as it's encouraged to read both alongside each other), and oh my. I love both! Definitely recommended as you're able or have interest. (It also goes to show just how perfect casting was in the Megan Follows iteration. But I digress, as I'm not here to discuss Gilbert's swoonworthiness ... ahem.)

The devotional lends a new depth to the Anne book that I thoroughly appreciate. Dodge draws parallels I would not have thought of and thoroughly appreciate. I also really enjoy the personal application and included prayer--very thoughtful, and often convicting.

The artwork in the final version is, I'm sure, delightful; I read the eARC on my Kindle Oasis, so formatting was somewhat wonky (though to be expected). I'm excited to see "the real thing"!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

First sentence: Reading and rereading Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery is a favorite tradition of mine—and I know I’m not alone. Anne Shirley’s story of adoption and belonging has delighted generations of readers from around the world for over one hundred years. Set in the fictional town of Avonlea, against the picturesque backdrop of Prince Edward Island, Anne of Green Gables brims with charming characters and heartwarming moments. Anne’s story is beloved because it expresses some of life’s most universal longings and assures us that goodness and beauty still exist in this world. Anne’s character inspires us to love the loveless, see the good in others, give people second chances, dream big dreams, and embrace life with open arms. Her grit spurs us to press on through life’s challenges. We understand her feelings of rejection and loneliness, her longing for a family and a home, and her many trials and tribulations. And our hearts swell when Anne finds what we all want most: unconditional love, a safe place to dream and grow, and the freedom to explore her place and purpose in the world.

Premise/plot: The Anne of Green Gables devotional is a perfect companion to the classic children's novel Anne of Green Gables. There is one devotional entry for each chapter of the novel. The devotional takes one scene (or event or emotion or theme, etc.) and spins it into a devotional that would be appropriate for young(er) readers or those young at heart.

I say "spins" because that is how I see it. Montgomery didn't write the novel with the spiritual formation of readers in mind. If there are life lessons to be learned, all well and good. Yes, this is my opinion. Yes, I know some may disagree. But if you've ever been exposed to children's classics where the author intentionally and obviously had the spiritual formation of the readers in mind, you'd see a night and day difference, I promise you. The characters in Montgomery's books--whether her adult books, her children's books, whatever--have oh-so-human characters. Human nature and nature-nature can be found in abundance in Montgomery's books.

Each devotional begins and ends with Scripture verses. In between there are a few quotes from the novel, a brief commentary on that chapter, and a concluding lesson or moral that ties it to the Christian faith, also a prayer. The back of the book has a discussion question for each devotion for use in small groups or book clubs.

My thoughts: When I was in junior high and high school I absolutely LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, CRAZY loved L.M. Montgomery. In particular I loved the Anne series, though I read them ALL. And reread them. And re-reread them. I read them obsessively and giddily. If you'd handed me this devotional book at that age, I would have been all over it. I would have thought it was the best thing ever. At that age, I wasn't all that big into devotional books or quiet time. I read the Bible. I did. I even memorized Scripture. Some. And to be honest I didn't have much choice in that. But I wasn't big into disciplines and routines. This devotional might have been a way to start a habit.

As an adult I am still not all that big on typical devotional books. I tend to like meatier more substantive sources for my Christian reading. (For example, this year I am reading Matthew Henry and J. Vernon McGee. Of the two, McGee is the less meaty and more accessible. But McGee's observations can punch you in the gut when you need it.) Fluffy devotionals are not my thing.

Is this one fluffy? I haven't made up my mind absolutely. I enjoyed the insight on the novel, on the characters, on the relationships. Some of the connections to spiritual lessons made sense; they still felt a little spun, mind you, but only a few of them seemed stretched too far. Without a doubt, it is reading INTO Montgomery's text and pulling out what you want and seeing what you want to see.

But overall I liked it. I could see mothers and daughters, grandmothers and granddaughters, aunts and nieces reading this devotional book together and perhaps reading it alongside the original novel.

Quotes:

From Day 1 A Divine Detour The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. PROVERBS 16:9 NASB

She and Matthew thought they needed an extra pair of hands around the farm, but God knew they needed a daughter. Often God’s plans for us are unexpected. We anticipate one thing, and something else—or someone else—shows up instead. We plan, make schedules and lists, do our part to get the ball rolling, and then something akin to a girl instead of a boy comes waltzing into our lives. God is not surprised by our detours and delays. He works in and through them in divine ways. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us of God’s promise to direct and establish our steps. We can and should make plans, but God is ultimately in charge. When you allow Him to direct your life, He brings about things beyond your imagination.

From Day 4 Defender of the Weak A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families. PSALM 68:5–6 NIV

Matthew’s quiet intervention is a picture of God’s work in our lives, for our salvation and for our good. God is a “father to the fatherless” who “sets the lonely in families” (Psalm 68:6 NIV). Before we knew Him, He knew us. When we were powerless to save ourselves, He intervened. While we were “still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NIV). God invites each of us into His own family through faith in Christ, that we might know God personally and become children of God (John 1:12).

From Day 25 Abba, Father Those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. PSALM 34:10 NIV

Matthew’s attentiveness to Anne’s needs gives us a glimpse into the overwhelming Father-love God has for us as His children. He anticipates and meets our needs each day, working behind the scenes in ways we cannot imagine. He goes further than our immediate necessities and does “far more abundantly than all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20 ESV). He loves to give good gifts to His children and provides us with tangible reminders of His presence, protection, and love.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Anne of Green Gables Devotional is so sweet. I own many devotionals, but I’ve never had one that is paired with a fabulous fiction book. How fun!

Each day’s reading includes Scripture verses, a quote from Anne of Green Gables, a devotion, personal application questions, and a prayer. A special little nugget I especially enjoyed is that it is a chapter-by-chapter reading – meaning that the day-one devotion is inspired by a chapter-one quote from the classic story, day two by a quote from chapter two, etc. How sweet is that?

There is a presentation page on the front for gifting—which is always a plus in my book. The devotions are short, easy to read, and inspiring. And the illustrations are adorable and nostalgic.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved Anne of Green Gables since I read the books back in elementary school. My love for Anne increased when the movies staring Megan Follows, as Anne, came out in the mid 80's.

So, when I saw The Anne of Green Gables Devotional; A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits I knew I wanted to read it.

Rachel Dodge has done a beautiful job of combining each chapter of the book along with scripture to create a lovely, and treasured devotional.

The illustrations are beautiful and fit perfectly with the devotional.

Any Anne fan would love this book. I know I will treasure it.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.