If I Couldn't Be Anne

Anne Picture Book

by Kallie George, Geneviève Godbout (Illustrations)

A beautiful read-aloud picture book about the power of the imagination, inspired by the best-selling Anne of Green Gables.

In this whimsical and magical picture book, Anne's boundless imagination takes flight! She imagines being all the things she loves so dearly. If I Couldn't Be Anne, Anne with an e, what would I be . . . Anne wonders what it would be like to be the wind dancing round the treetops. A tightrope walker, breathless and brave. A princess in a palace made of apple blossoms. A magical frost fairy or a plain little wood elf. . . . But even as Anne's imagination soars far and wide, she comes back down to earth, recognizing that some things - like friendship! - are even better than the imagination.

With adorable illustrations, and a heartfelt message, this picture book is a perfect read-aloud introduction to L.M. Montgomery's beloved Anne and will delight her brand-new fans and lifelong readers alike.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Canada, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Retellings, Friendship

40 pages, Hardcover

First published May 12, 2020

About the author

I’m an author, editor, and speaker living in Vancouver, BC, near the sea. When I’m not writing or editing, I’m teaching creative writing workshops.

I have my Masters of Children's Literature from the University of British Columbia.

I love picture books, fairy tales, beautiful art and music, and baking cookies.

Reviews

[Virginie Roy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this sweet book illustrated by Geneviève Godbout (she's so good!), we follow Anne, daydreaming about who she could be if she wasn't Anne with an e. Kallie George takes events from the original books to tell this story and I found myself smiling at the nice references. Children won't understand at the same level, but it's still poetic and the illustrations are so beautiful. Also, it's a good way for your kids to meet Anne for the first time and when they'll grow older they'll discover the novels!

I prefered this one to Goodnight, Anne, so if you likee the latter, you'll enjoy this one as well!

Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada and Netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange of an honest review.

Publication date: May 12th, 2020.

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I Couldn't Be Anne by Kallie George is ridiculously sweet, colourful and lovely!

This whimsical tale follows a sweet girl who wants to be Anne with an E. I grew up knowing about this story and watching the different adaptions for school. It's a very popular story, especially in Canada, so this book gave me all sorts of nostalgia back to my childhood. All the girls wanted to be Anne with an E because of the tales told in our classes.

The illustrations are gorgeous, soft and colourful. They make this story feel super sweet and magical! It takes you inside the story very well.

On a side note: I WANT THE DRESS SHE WEARS ON THE TIGHTROPE OMG ITS SO PRETTY.

Overall, this is a super cute book! I highly recommend it to those who want a whimsical picture book, love Anne with an E, or just want something fun!

Five out of five stars!

Thank you to NetGalley, Tundra Books and Penguin Random House Canada for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.

[La Coccinelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the team that brought us Goodnight, Anne comes this sweet little book that perfectly captures the spirit of Anne Shirley with evocative text and dreamy pictures.

Anne muses on what she would be if she weren't herself. For those familiar with the character, it's easy to see how her ideas are in perfect sync with Montgomery's original themes. Even Anne's dislike of her red hair is mentioned (although it's emphasized that red is far better than green, a nod to an incident in Anne of Green Gables).

The illustrations by Geneviève Godbout are soft and magical, yet somehow still manage to capture Anne's somewhat (often unintentionally) mischievous spirit. They're in the same style as those in Goodnight, Anne, and they're simply lovely.

I would definitely recommend this to fans of Anne, as well as to those looking for books about imagination and self-esteem.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tundra Books (NY) for providing a digital ARC.

[Manybooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspired by L.M. Montgomery's classic 1908 novel Anne of Green Gables (and yes, like with Kallie George's other AOGG picture books, I am once again left a bit annoyed and frustrated that Montgomery is not prominently displayed on the book cover alongside of author and illustrator), George's printed words for her 2020 If I Couldn't Be Anne is in my humble opinion not really meant for introducing young readers/listeners to Anne Shirley, to Avonlea etc. since pretty much ALL of the contents of If I Couldn't Be Anne (such as for example Anne recalling her green hair fiasco) rely on rather specific foreknowledge of Anne of Green Gables (and which is in my humble opinion pretty well improbable for a traditional picture book audience and thus makes If I Couldn't Be Anne more something for nostalgic adults).

But although I am indeed one of those nostalgic adults (and did as such and of course kind of enjoy locating and finding Anne of Green Gables scenarios and anecdotes in If I Couldn't Be Anne), sorry, but Kallie George's textual attempts at channeling Anne Shirley's imagination into a kind of stream of conscience Anne with an "e" celebration really mostly ends up presenting an overly saccharine and annoying repetitiveness that even in a picture book very quickly becomes rather tedious (and as such not at all to my own and personal textual tastes and equally not really being an homage to Anne of Green Gables either but instead rather dragging down both Anne Shirley and also L.M. Montgomery, and in particular since Montgomery manages to show Anne and her imagination so brilliantly, so humorously and so believably in Anne of Green Gables). And albeit Geneviève Godbout’s pastel-and–coloured-pencil accompanying artwork for If I Couldn't Be Anne is visually pleasant, nicely expressive (and with Anne Shirley also being immediately recognisable), Godbout's illustrations are also overly and one-sidedly cloyingly syrup like, which of course does successfully mirror Kallie George's text for If I Couldn't be Anne but also leaves the combination of text and images as so drowning in on the surface and unnuanced broken-record like sweetness that I for one (and even though I seem to be the minority here) can and will only consider a very low and also as such rather generous three star rating for If I Couldn't Be Anne.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful illustrated book of Anne of Green Gables as she uses her imagination to be something else. If I couldn't be Anne with e, I would rather be.... It is a beautiful way to look at the world and see it from another perspective. If you are fan of the Green Gables, you will love this edition.

A Special Thank you to Tundra Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a long-time Anne lover, I knew I'd have to read this children's homage to one of the most beloved literary characters ever!

The book took elements from Anne of Green Gables and wove them into a beautiful poem that delighted this Anne fan. There have been many different Anne interpretations and some of them haven't been my cup-of-tea because I don't feel they hold true to who Anne really was.

But, this book was written how I imagine Anne would've spoken if L.M. Montgomery gave Anne license to write poetry for children in her books!

Not only was the story wonderful; but the illustrations were whimsical and sweet. I love how well the author and illustrator captured the spirit of Anne Shirley.

[Mel (Epic Reading) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Since Anne of Green Gables came out of copyright and into the public domain there has been a multitude of children's books and 'inspired by' texts to peruse. I have yet to find one that I feel embodies or moves the Anne of Green Gables legacy forward in a meaningful manner.

As a born and raised Canadian, whose got family members buried not 15km away from Anne's house on Prince Edward Island (although I live in the West), I have a bit of a protective 'mama bear' attitude towards L.M. Montgomery and Anne. I totally understand that like so many classic children's/middle grade books many of us have fond memories of Anne and her travels. But we weren't five years old when those memories began; and yet they keep publishing board/children's books about Anne even though it's much too young for full exposure.

Let's face it, the nostalgia factor for the parent means nothing to a small child. This story abut Anne could be about any girl of any name and it would still be: boring, insignificant, and underwhelming. At the age group this is targeted at we are much better off having books about animals, social responsibility, morals, etc. We are deluding ourselves if we think any children under 7 think some random redheaded girl is important (unless her name is Merida).
I think we should preserve Anne for the middle-grade group of children. Allow them to peruse the novel(s) the same as we did at the age. I do not believe there is a need for an introduction to Anne earlier than that. This book is just fluff.

While the illustrations are gorgeous, and the verse kind of cute, this just doesn't do it for me. Funny enough my middle name is Ann (without an E) and I remember telling my Mom how disappointed I was in her choice of spelling (I'm told my relatives didn't have an E on their name). It's funny now, but I can't even imagine if I had been obsessed with Anne at an earlier age than 8 as I might not have understood that how you spell a name is irrelevant at the end of the day. So I recommend you don't give any girls named Ann (without an E) a complex and find something a little more educational for your little ones for story time. Provide Anne at the right age so they can love her like we all do.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautifully illustrated picture book where Anne from Anne of Green Gables tells of what she would do in life if she weren't herself. Much of it is fantasy (a gull, the wind dancing on treetops, a lily maid, a tightrope walker...). The illustrations are whimsical and lovely. The text is sparse, making it a great bedtime book for those parents who must read a stack at bedtime (surely that's not just me?) and want enjoyable but brief ones in the pile some nights. :) This book will make a wonderful companion to the novel, but also stands on its own as a sweet little picture book.

I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.

[Tessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book which I think would be enjoyed by both kids and adults, Anne fans and those unfamiliar with the story. I think that it can stand on its own (though of course, people who already like Anne will appreciate it most).

The writing doesn't rhyme, which isn't a problem, but it sometimes had a rhythm like it was trying to rhyme and failing. Once I got used to this, it didn't bother me.

[Regina Chari · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you loved Anne of Green Gables and you want your child to love her as well, this is the place to start. This whimsical children's book introduces us to Anne, Anne with an E.

The story is as delightful as the original. The pictures are gorgeous. I am not sure who with love this book more the child or the parent.

This would also make a perfect baby shower or birthday gift!

The publisher made this book available via Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my honest review.

[Carla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I liked this book more than either of my grandchildren. It uses ideas from the Anne of Green Gables books to showcase all the things that Anne loves about Green Gables and the community. It was a whimsical story with absolutely gorgeous illustrations. It is a good introduction to the Anne stories. Having said all that, neither of my grandchildren were impressed with the book and it was one that they did not ask for again, in fact, they didn't even want me to finish it. Perhaps they are too young for it. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[Jennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a picture book, and I was not as fond of it, as I have been of some of her other books about Anne of Green Gables

[Kier Scrivener · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful, recreates many of the beautiful moments from Anne of Green Gables when Anne is dwelling on nature and imagination. Made me smile

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

You thought I couldn't possibly read more Anne of Green Gables, but you were wrong. This one is a lovely picture book that just came out last week. It has all the whimsy of the original in its references and illustrations. I know there are Anne board books and there are Anne early reader chapter books, but I haven't come across any Anne picture books before!

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am not sure why the current obsession with Anne of Green Gables (tv show, chapter books, now a picture book) but I feel like a lot has to do with nostalgia. I will admit that I have read all the chapter books and have enjoyed them. This picture book, however, seems completely unnecessary. Who is the audience for this? Is it parents who loved Anne growing up and want to share it with their young child? If so, the language in the book is too sophisticated for the audience. Also, the repetition of "If I couldn't be Anne, Anne with an e" actually took away from the rhythm of the text. Just not really into picture books that I can't find a use for, whether it is for a one-on-one reading, a storytime, or fills a need. The illustrations are nice, with bright colors that are appealing. #Netgalley

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Penguin Random House Canada through NetGalley.
Charming picture book to introduce younger readers to Anne of Green Gables.
George captures her whimsy and imagination as Anne shares who she would be if she couldn't be herself. Softly colored illustrations bring the story to life for young and older readers. The simple to follow text draws you in to celebrate Anne's life and dreams.
Could be an introductory read aloud to introduce classes to the classic - Anne of Green Gables.

[Mrs. Mazzola · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful introduction to one of my personal favorite literary characters. The story follows a young Anne as she imagines who she could be if she wasn't Anne with an E. It alludes to the original story (which will likely not have as much impact on the audience, but will definitely resonate with adult readers), but can easily stand alone as a tribute to the wonder of your imagination. Highly recommend!!

[Cozy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgally and the author and publisher for the gifted copy of If I couldn't be Anne.

I thought the illustrations were gorgeous. This little book is a great nod to Anne Shirley. It has very little text per page so it's a quick easy read.

What I didn't enjoy was the repetitive use of a certain sentence. I found that a little irritating.

4 stars.

[Etienne · Rating 2 out of 5]

2,5/5. Gorgeous illustrations and a nice inspiration from Anne of Green Gables. Unfortunately that's about all there is. The book/story in itself is a bit too light/empty for my taste.

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I couldn't be Anne // by Kallie George // illustrated by Genevieve Godbout

I didn't grow up with Anne but actually just read the books maybe a year or two ago. I loved them immediately though and was excited to see this little gem come out. The illustrations are beautiful and give the book such a fun and sweet feel, and the writing feels so... Anne! I was transported right back into the story. What a fun way to introduce young kids to this little girl's adventures!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've enjoyed the renewed interest in Anne of Green Gables, from fresh biographies and a miniseries to new publications. There is something captivating about Anne's presence that continues to draw new readers.

If I Couldn't be Anne is a whimsical picture book from Anne's perspective as she dreams of the world around her and the ways she would engage with it if she were not Anne. Perhaps she'd be the wind, or the echoes, or the water. 

The simple words are filled with lush illustrations, and well-versed readers will recognize scenes and references to books. On one page, Anne discusses kindred spirits, on another, she bemoans red hair (but confesses that's a better fate than green hair). On yet another, Anne is laid out in a boat with her eyes closed.

For parents who relish Anne of Green Gables but have young children not yet ready to be introduced to the series, this is a lovely placeholder.

(I was given a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Author Kallie George and illustrator Genevieve Godbout bring the amazing Anne of Green Gables to tell us all the things she would be if she wasn’t Anne (with an e). A picture book for anyone who wants to share the character of Anne Shirley with the younger set.

[Adele]

Another Anne nostalgia-fest I am not going to rate. I did read Anne of Green Gables way back when, but I didn't like it and hardly remember it so my husband had to explain some of the references to me.

[Rod Brown · Rating 2 out of 5]

Anne Shirley engages her legendary imagination to daydream about who or what she might be if she weren't Anne of Green Gables.

It touches on moments from the original book, but this old man is not as fond of such blatherskite as Matthew Cuthbert.

[Samantha Ania · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is lovely and soft and a wonder tribute to Anne.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this even more than Goodnight Anne. In this one she thinks of all the different versions of herself she could be and why. The ending and message is quite sweet.

[Sarah Sammis · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I Couldn't Be Anne by Kallie George and Geneviève Godbout is a picture book from Anne Shirley's point of view. Anne as she's introduced in Anne of Green Gables is a talkative, enthusiastic child. We're given lots of monologs from her and this book tries to dig down to the basic emotions behind her run-on sentences.

[Ellen | Bellewood Cottage · Rating 4 out of 5]

If, like me, you are enthusiastic about all things Anne, you will love this new picture book from Tundra Books.⁣ I was blown away by the beautiful illustrations in this delightful Anne of Green Gables inspired children’s book.
⁣
Anne imagines all the various things she would be if she couldn’t be Anne, Anne with an e. The wind, a lily maid, a fancy lady drinking tea in a “grown-up-ish” way. Long-time fans of Anne will recognize these callbacks to the original story and love the book for that. Just know that this book isn't just a shortened up version of the original Anne, so it could be confusing for those little ones not familiar with the story.⁣
⁣
Suggested age range is 3-7, and kids will enjoy this first taste of Anne of Green Gables. Of course, I think Anne enthusiasts of any age will love having this sweet book on their bookshelf.⁣
⁣
Many thanks to Tundra Books and to NetGalley for the chance to review this book.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated picture book is written from Anne's perspective as she tells the reader what she would be if she could not be herself. She imagines herself as different animals and fantasy creatures, pictures herself in different life situations, and concludes with all the things that are wonderful about her life. As a long-term fan of the Anne series, I enjoyed this picture book's many nods to Anne's character and different elements from the book.

Previously, I found this author's early chapter book adaptations of Anne of Green Gables inadequate and disappointing, because like most adaptations, they rip the story down to the bare bones and remove much of its charm. However, because this is a supplementary picture book, not an adaptation, it is fully enjoyable for both book fans and people who are only just learning about Anne. Fans will have fun sharing this book with their children, since it is simple, sweet, and charming without spoiling story elements of the series or retelling it poorly.

The illustrations are simple but absolutely radiant, and the text is rhythmic and sweet. This is a delightful picture book, even aside from its associations with L.M. Montgomery's work, and it works as both a general read-aloud and a bedtime story. This will appeal in school and library settings as well as to families, and is a fun introduction to Anne.

I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Christy Hagen Clements · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anne of Green Gables is one of my favorite childhood characters of all time so this book was very nostalgic for me. It is a beautifully illustrated (these illustrations were EVERYTHING!) love letter to Anne. There are charming situations and words presented from the original story that children reading this will really need to be familiar with Anne of Green Gables in order to fully enjoy the experience. All that being said, I think this may be more of a book for established fans of Anne of Green Gables, both children and adults alike, rather than a standard picture book for any and all children to pick up.

Thank you to @netgalley For providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.