L.M. Montgomery

by Genevieve Wiggins

Examines the literary career of the author of "Anne of Green Gables" and the influence of her personal life on her writings.

191 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 1992

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book deals with ways that Montgomery's life and experiences influenced her writing. I learned plenty about her life that I did not know. Twayne analyzes Montgomery's writing in the light of various critics and the writing trends of the time, as well as the ways Montgomery uses various elements of fiction. Some ways of handling scenes that are seen as pretty cheesy now, were actually encouraged a century ago! Twayne's afterword is worth reading for the way it puts everything in perspective, in a comparatively few well chosen words.
For a book I read out of a sense of duty (enjoying Montgomery's books, and having an interest in writing myself if I ever get a better handle on my time and space) I found this book enjoyable and informative.... and I probably made this review way, way too long.

[Amanda Himes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wiggins sets up this biography on LMM by using the lens of her writings (novels, poems, short stories) in chronological chapters. Not very deep, but a helpful reminder / summary of Montgomery's entire oeuvre, esp. the lesser-known novels like Magic for Marigold and poems such as "The Watchman."

The most poignant line from LMM's journal, circa 1920: "At heart I am still the snubbed little girl of years ago who was constantly made to feel by all the grown-up denizens of her small world that she was of no importance whatsoever to any living creature" (vol. II).