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Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories, 1902-1903
Lucy Maud Montgomery, (always called "Maud" by family and friends) and publicly known as L. M. Montgomery, (1874-1942) was a Canadian author, best known for a series of novels beginning with Anne of Green Gables (1908). In 1893, following the completion of her grade school education in Cavendish, she attended Prince of Wales College in Charlottetown. Completing a two year program in one year, she obtained her teaching certificate. In 1895 and 1896 she studied literature at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. After working as a teacher in various island schools, in 1898 Montgomery moved back to Cavendish. For a short time in 1901 and 1902 she worked in Halifax for the newspapers Chronicle and Echo. She returned to live with and care for her grandmother in 1902. Montgomery was inspired to write her first books during this time on Prince Edward Island. Her works include: The Story Girl (1911), Chronicles of Avonlea (1912), The Golden Road (1913), Anne of the Island (1915), Anne's House of Dreams (1917), Rainbow Valley (1919), Further Chronicles of Avonlea (1920) and Rilla of Ingleside (1921).
208 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
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About the author
L.M. Montgomery
1,986 books13.4k followersLucy Maud Montgomery was a Canadian author, best known for a series of novels beginning with Anne of Green Gables, published in 1908.
Montgomery was born at Clifton, Prince Edward Island, Nov. 30, 1874. She came to live at Leaskdale, north of Uxbridge Ontario, after her wedding with Rev. Ewen Macdonald on July 11, 1911. She had three children and wrote close to a dozen books while she was living in the Leaskdale Manse before the family moved to Norval, Ontario in 1926. She died in Toronto April 24, 1942 and was buried at Cavendish, Prince Edward Island.
Montgomery was born at Clifton, Prince Edward Island, Nov. 30, 1874. She came to live at Leaskdale, north of Uxbridge Ontario, after her wedding with Rev. Ewen Macdonald on July 11, 1911. She had three children and wrote close to a dozen books while she was living in the Leaskdale Manse before the family moved to Norval, Ontario in 1926. She died in Toronto April 24, 1942 and was buried at Cavendish, Prince Edward Island.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 29, 2023
Please do note that this here one star rating is not in ANY manner, in ANY way meant to be a comment on L.M. Montgomery's fiction, her writing (as for the most part, the collected, included stories deserve between three and five stars), but on the annoyingly and supremely user-unfriendly way in which Dodo Press has presented and published them. When I first became aware of the Dodo Press collection of Montgomery short stories (six books in fact) I was excited, because from the title (Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories: 1902-1903) it appeared as though the individual stories would be arranged chronologically. However, while the stories contained in the Dodo Press collection are, indeed, those written by L.M. Montgomery from 1902-1903, the tales themselves have been arranged in random (and therefore not in chronological) order. So if you were, if you are looking forward to finally being able to read L.M. Montgomery's short stories in actual order of appearance, this fact will make your desire considerably more difficult.
And yes, what I personally find even more problematic with regard to this book (as well as with all of other volumes in the Dodo Press collection of L.M. Montgomery Short Stories), is the lack of any type of usable table of contents. For while both the stories and their dates of appearance are listed at the beginning of the book, Dodo Press somehow and strangely has not deemed it necessary to also supply the starting pages for the featured tales. Thus, if you desire to read a particular 1902 or 1903 story, or if you are actually trying to read the tales chronologically (in order of actual appearance), you will need to guess on which page a given story actually commences. And I really do not understand why Dodo Press could not have arranged these stories by their year and month of appearance, and it is simply unacceptable that the table of contents is so user-unfriendly (not supplying the starting pages of the stories, sorry, but for me that is an almost unforgivable and massively anger-producing shortcoming).
And furthermore, this Dodo Press collection of L.M. Montgomery short stories is also not going to be of much if ANY use for those wishing to use it for academic (read research) purposes, as there is neither an introduction nor is any of the source material listed. Now an introduction would have been beneficial, but not really absoultely required, but Dodo Press should really have listed the diverse magazines, journals etc. in which these stories originally appeared. So while I still enjoyed the reading time spent with and on Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories: 1902-1903, the entire Dodo Press set-up is certainly a major disappointment, and I feel that I should at least warn other fans of L.M. Montgomery's fiction about the shortcomings of this particular series. And while I do now realise that Dodo Press has probably just taken these stories from free online sites such as Project Gutenberg, that still does NOT in any way excuse the user unfriendly print format I have encountered.
And yes, I could just as easily (and much more cheaply) have downloaded the featured tales from Project Gutenberg and then formatted them myself. However, since I obtained this series as traditional paper format printed books (and they were also a much appreciated gift), I can and do (or at least I should be able to) expect a reader and user friendly format, and this simply does not ever materialise. And potential readers should also be aware that ALL of the Dodo Press series books of L.M. Montgomery's short stories have the exact same issues, are similarly constructed (random chronological order, a patently unusable table of contents and with no publication information, period). And frankly, if you are indeed actively interested in L.M. Montgomery's short fiction, you should probably either download them from online sources (there are many possibilities, from Project Gutenberg to various Kindle and other e-book formats), or better yet, seriously consider the late great Rea Wilmshurt's spectacular collection (the eight thematic books might not contain every short story that L.M. Montgomery ever penned, but the individual tomes are extensive, beautifully structured, and ALWAYS include an introduction as well as the relevant source materials).
And yes, what I personally find even more problematic with regard to this book (as well as with all of other volumes in the Dodo Press collection of L.M. Montgomery Short Stories), is the lack of any type of usable table of contents. For while both the stories and their dates of appearance are listed at the beginning of the book, Dodo Press somehow and strangely has not deemed it necessary to also supply the starting pages for the featured tales. Thus, if you desire to read a particular 1902 or 1903 story, or if you are actually trying to read the tales chronologically (in order of actual appearance), you will need to guess on which page a given story actually commences. And I really do not understand why Dodo Press could not have arranged these stories by their year and month of appearance, and it is simply unacceptable that the table of contents is so user-unfriendly (not supplying the starting pages of the stories, sorry, but for me that is an almost unforgivable and massively anger-producing shortcoming).
And furthermore, this Dodo Press collection of L.M. Montgomery short stories is also not going to be of much if ANY use for those wishing to use it for academic (read research) purposes, as there is neither an introduction nor is any of the source material listed. Now an introduction would have been beneficial, but not really absoultely required, but Dodo Press should really have listed the diverse magazines, journals etc. in which these stories originally appeared. So while I still enjoyed the reading time spent with and on Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories: 1902-1903, the entire Dodo Press set-up is certainly a major disappointment, and I feel that I should at least warn other fans of L.M. Montgomery's fiction about the shortcomings of this particular series. And while I do now realise that Dodo Press has probably just taken these stories from free online sites such as Project Gutenberg, that still does NOT in any way excuse the user unfriendly print format I have encountered.
And yes, I could just as easily (and much more cheaply) have downloaded the featured tales from Project Gutenberg and then formatted them myself. However, since I obtained this series as traditional paper format printed books (and they were also a much appreciated gift), I can and do (or at least I should be able to) expect a reader and user friendly format, and this simply does not ever materialise. And potential readers should also be aware that ALL of the Dodo Press series books of L.M. Montgomery's short stories have the exact same issues, are similarly constructed (random chronological order, a patently unusable table of contents and with no publication information, period). And frankly, if you are indeed actively interested in L.M. Montgomery's short fiction, you should probably either download them from online sources (there are many possibilities, from Project Gutenberg to various Kindle and other e-book formats), or better yet, seriously consider the late great Rea Wilmshurt's spectacular collection (the eight thematic books might not contain every short story that L.M. Montgomery ever penned, but the individual tomes are extensive, beautifully structured, and ALWAYS include an introduction as well as the relevant source materials).
October 1, 2024
5 stars. I love how quaint and hilarious these stories are. As always, it’s delightful to meet the ancestors of people or anecdotes that will show up in the Anne books. I loved the humour in this book—like in “Patent Medicine Testimonial” and “The Strike at Putney”; and I loved the sweet romance in some of the stories, though a couple got pretty dramatic (“Estella,” for example). And some were just fun, happy little stories like “The Bride Roses” and “Ned’s Stroke of Business.” But my favourite was probably “Aunt Cyrilla’s Christmas Basket”… I think that might be my very favourite of Montgomery’s short stories! <3
N.B.: I noticed when I was younger that Montgomery really feed my imagination and obsessed me; younger girls might want to avoid some of the more dramatic stories.
I. A Patent Medicine Testimonial
4 stars. Stubborn Uncle Abimelech refuses a loan and insists his nephew Murray must inherit the family farm instead of taking a doctor’s course, so Murray’s twin sister decides to show Uncle A. how they’ll fund their own college through the options available to them…
I love the humour of this story. There’s something really enjoyable about Montgomery’s classic stories of stubborn, ridiculous old uncles who have to be coaxed or pushed into a desired course of action. Prudence is such a clever, amusing girl and Murray is so cute and helpless. XD
II. A Sandshore Wooing
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). Poor Marguerite Forrester lives a dull, drab life under the tyranny of her severe old aunt who contrives to make even vacation miserable. Aunt Martha hates many things, but specifically men… which makes life interesting when the brother of a school chum shows up.
Okay, so of course I don't agree with the whole clandestine-wooing part, but Aunt Martha was ridiculous and wrong, and Marguerite (who reminds me of Pauline from Anne of Windy Poplars ) was never really happy with the underhand part and admitted it at once. Barring that, it’s such a cute, funny, sweet little rom-com, very clean and summery, and I can’t help loving Francis Shelmardine. ;) Also the setting!!
III. After Many Days
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). Ben Butler was the town scapegrace fifteen years ago and Stephen was the only one who believed in him and helped him up. Does love and understanding really return to bless the giver?
This is a lovely little story with such a sweet message. Old Stephen is such a wonderful person. I got so frustrated with his indifferent, suspicious neighbours and Joe Moore. Ben is a puzzle himself; I never really knew what he was about to do. It’s a heartwarming story in the end though.
A Favourite Quote: “I don’t want to complain. The Lord does all things well. I haven’t a doubt but that it all fits into His wise purposes—not a doubt, Ben, although it may be kind of hard to see it.”
IV. An Unconventional Confidence
4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). When a Girl from Halifax is betrothed from her cradle to a Young Man in England whom she has never seen, it’s perfectly understandable that she envies her sister Beatrice her freedom, despite Beatrice’s pug nose. It is not, however, perfectly conventional to pour out one’s soul to an unknown Young Man trapped with you under a pavilion during a shower.
Oh, this story is delightful! It is so sweet and humorous and so wittily crafted, and yet so short and simple! One of the best of Montgomery’s short stories, I think. I love the Girl—she’s so cute and intense—and I love the Young Man, so loyal and upright…
“She is his heart's lady, and the thought of her abides with him as a safeguard and an inspiration. For her sake he resolves to make the most of himself, and live a clean, loyal life. When she comes to him she must find his heart fit to receive her. There is never a time in all his life when the dream of her does not gleam before him as of a star to which he may aspire with all reverence and love.”
V. Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket
5 stars. This is absolutely going to the top of the list as one of my favourite Christmas stories EVER. Good setting? Check! Who doesn’t love the good old-fashioned country setting? Plot? Check! With all the excitement of being trapped in a train during a blizzard, but complete comfort and happiness instead of anxiety. Engaging characters? Check! I want to be an Aunt Cyrilla when I grow up—practical, comforting, wise, and totally unworried by what people think of her. Lucy Rose is sweet, and I like her arc. As for the passengers—they’re barely detailed, and yet they’re so vibrant! The hurting old rich lady, the sweet lonely shop girl, the poor helpless mother, the hearty innocent kids, the noble boyish soldier, and the forgotten warmhearted minister… they’re such a lovely cast and I almost wish I could read more of them. The humour is Montgomery’s own, and the sweet message just fills you up with Christmas Spirit—but is also good for every day of the year.
VI. Davenport’s Story
1 star. Montgomery has a thing for ghost stories… and I don’t.
VII. Emily’s Husband
2.7 stars (3/10 hearts). Emily Fair has never seen or spoken to her husband since the day, five years ago, that she left his house after a quarrel. Her siblings hate him as much as she does, and his name is never even mentioned. But Emily’s husband is now at death’s door…
It’s one of Montgomery’s wild Gothic stories, full of passion and drama, a little dark even. Thankfully the ending wasn’t what I expected but it’s still an intense tale, and not my favourite.
VIII. Min
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). This Gothic tale appeals to me… at least the beginning thereof, because the ending makes me so sorry. It’s sad and solemn—the story of a soul who could have been so much more but was tied down by hatred and finally succumbed to it… yet there is a thread of redemption too, only I wish it was stronger! I love the message of the minister’s storyline, though the romance is too fast and too melodramatic for my liking. It’s not one of Montgomery’s dark, wild tales, but it’s definitely more serious and thought-provoking than her usual stories.
IX. Miss Cordelia’s Accommodation
4 stars. What a sweet, lovely, wholesome little romance! Miss Cordelia is a darling woman, so practical and tender and generous, and Mr. Smiles is such a splendid fellow. I love their heart for the factory children. It’s just an absolutely cute and delightful story.
X. Ned’s Stroke of Business
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). There’s no pond for the boys to skate on and Ned has no money for school. But Old Dutcher has both money and a pond… can Ned combine the two in a stroke of business?
Ned is such a nice, upright boy and I love his enterprise. There’s just something about community stories that appeals to me, and I really enjoy reading about the different people of the town... A story well done.
XI. Our Runaway Kite
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). Claude & Philippa were just trying to fix their kite when they pasted that old letter on it, but they never imagined the result when their kite got away from them…
This is a cute, humorous little story with a lovely setting—lighthouses are just cool. The children are delightful, and Montgomery is SO good at writing child narratives!
XII. The Bride Roses
4 stars. I’m sure Miss Corona, like Miss Sally from Miss Sally’s Company must be the ancestor of Miss Lavender in Anne of Avonlea, and Charlotta, like Julianna from M.S.C., the ancestor of Charlotta the Fourth from A.o.A. Sweet as she is, Miss Corona can’t quite compare to Miss L.; but C. the Fourth is a much better handmaid, however. Also, Juliet is a darling girl. Of course I love the roses, and the little romance, and I also love the reconciliation storyline! It’s a super sweet story.
XIII. The Josephs’ Christmas
5 stars. What a delightful Christmas story!! It’s so sweet and Christmassy and old-fashioned and well-developed. Another of my favourite Montgomery stories!
XIV. The Magical Bond of the Sea
4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). This is a very typically Montgomery story—drama, romance, and beautiful seascapes. A rich couple adopting a shore girl; a gorgeous heroine; a silent hero with unrequited love (for a time); a rich, unlovable rival; homesickness and family ties… and the most gorgeous descriptions. I love Nora’s lesson, and the whole story is just my cuppa tea.
Content: A kiss.
XV. The Martyrdom of Estella
2 stars. This story always takes me by surprise. It’s very intense, rather dark… I despise Spencer, hate Vivienne, and feel so sorry for Estella. So passionate, but so unhappy.
Content: Suicidal thoughts; a woman in an immodest dress; tawdry scene with a drunk character; a kiss or two; a fiancé who falls in love with a different woman.
XVI. The Old Chest at Wyther Grange
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). I don't know why, I have a fondness for stories of unrequited love/faithless fiancés/lost love. Perhaps it’s the fault of all those folk songs I love? Anyways, I quite liked this story. I love the setting SO much, and the characters are fantastic. Grandmother and Aunt Winnifred are lovely (Grandmother’s comments on handwriting crack me up. I wonder what “fine ladylike script” and “modern sprawly, untidy hands” she was referring to—and what she’d think of 2000’s writing!), while Eliza sounds so sweet and pathetic; while the villain reminds me of Willoughby —only worse. And for some reason the trunk unpacking is something I love (reminds me of The Little Brown Book of Miss Emily ). The story’s plot was mostly reused in The Golden Road, but it has extra touches here that are more fascinating, and it reminds me of The Red Room, but without the gothicness—just the sorrow and injustice of real life… it breaks my heart, but also speaks to me.
XVII. The Osbornes' Christmas
4 stars. Such a sweet, fun Christmas story! The Osbornes were so cute and funny, and I loved the plot, and the aunt! Great little story to get into the Christmas spirit.
XVIII. The Romance of Aunt Beatrice
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). Aunt Beatrice here reminded me of Miss Ponsonby. She’s so sweet and I feel so sorry for her! Margaret was a super nice girl, but I do not care at all for Uncle George and Aunt Bella. Mr. Reynolds seems a nice man, though. I love the stories about old lovers separated by quarrels, family, or circumstances meeting and rekindling the flame. It’s just a really sweet little romance. <3
Content: 1 kiss mentioned.
XIX. The Running Away of Chester
5 stars. I have always loved this story, ever since I first read it in Akin to Anne: Tales of Other Orphans. It’s sweet and heartwarming, with the loveliest characters—hardworking Chester, innocent Miss Salome, hardboiled and kind-hearted Clementiny… and a hateful villain. Chester’s adventures captured my adventures as a child and still command all my interest, and of course the writing style and humour are excellent. The dénouement is perfectly satisfying, and I adore the old-fashioned, countryside, and small-community feels of the whole piece.
XX. The Strike at Putney
4 stars. The men of Putney church refuse to allow a visiting missionary give her talk to the W.F.M. Auxiliary from the pulpit, citing “direct contravention to the teachings of St. Paul.” And to show them the folly of this decision, the women of the church promptly refuse to carry out any more work for the church, since women “haven't any business to meddle in church matters.”
It’s a delightfully humorous story, reminding me of Grace S. Richmond’s On Christmas Day in the Morning and that type of wholesome “homespun” community stories. I enjoyed seeing the silly fellows admit their mistake and realize just how much work the women put into the church!
XXI. The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar
5 stars. Frances Farquhar was jilted by a handsome, unscrupulous fiancé, and she’s too preoccupied with her own broken heart to do anything but cry herself sick over the worthless fellow. Aunt Eleanor’s quiet countryside home is just what she needs to recover, but it’s not until Frances starts opening her eyes to the pain around her that she finds healing.
I love the message of this story! Frances was a nice girl, and I really liked Corona and Elliott. Aunt Eleanor is a wise old woman, and Jacky & his mother were so piteous. The setting was lovely and the plotline so nice… it’s just a sweet little romance. <3
XXII. Why Mr. Cropper Changed His Mind
3 stars. Mr. Cropper’s sons won’t behave at school, and Esther’s in danger of losing the job if she can’t control them. But Mr. Cropper says he won’t do anything to help her… until Esther accidentally stumbles across a useful piece of blackmail.
It’s kind of a humorous story... but not quite my style. I just don't like blackmailing, even if in this case she was right and Mr. Cropper was totally not... 🤷🏻♀️
N.B.: I noticed when I was younger that Montgomery really feed my imagination and obsessed me; younger girls might want to avoid some of the more dramatic stories.
I. A Patent Medicine Testimonial
4 stars. Stubborn Uncle Abimelech refuses a loan and insists his nephew Murray must inherit the family farm instead of taking a doctor’s course, so Murray’s twin sister decides to show Uncle A. how they’ll fund their own college through the options available to them…
I love the humour of this story. There’s something really enjoyable about Montgomery’s classic stories of stubborn, ridiculous old uncles who have to be coaxed or pushed into a desired course of action. Prudence is such a clever, amusing girl and Murray is so cute and helpless. XD
II. A Sandshore Wooing
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). Poor Marguerite Forrester lives a dull, drab life under the tyranny of her severe old aunt who contrives to make even vacation miserable. Aunt Martha hates many things, but specifically men… which makes life interesting when the brother of a school chum shows up.
Okay, so of course I don't agree with the whole clandestine-wooing part, but Aunt Martha was ridiculous and wrong, and Marguerite (who reminds me of Pauline from Anne of Windy Poplars ) was never really happy with the underhand part and admitted it at once. Barring that, it’s such a cute, funny, sweet little rom-com, very clean and summery, and I can’t help loving Francis Shelmardine. ;) Also the setting!!
III. After Many Days
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). Ben Butler was the town scapegrace fifteen years ago and Stephen was the only one who believed in him and helped him up. Does love and understanding really return to bless the giver?
This is a lovely little story with such a sweet message. Old Stephen is such a wonderful person. I got so frustrated with his indifferent, suspicious neighbours and Joe Moore. Ben is a puzzle himself; I never really knew what he was about to do. It’s a heartwarming story in the end though.
A Favourite Quote: “I don’t want to complain. The Lord does all things well. I haven’t a doubt but that it all fits into His wise purposes—not a doubt, Ben, although it may be kind of hard to see it.”
IV. An Unconventional Confidence
4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). When a Girl from Halifax is betrothed from her cradle to a Young Man in England whom she has never seen, it’s perfectly understandable that she envies her sister Beatrice her freedom, despite Beatrice’s pug nose. It is not, however, perfectly conventional to pour out one’s soul to an unknown Young Man trapped with you under a pavilion during a shower.
Oh, this story is delightful! It is so sweet and humorous and so wittily crafted, and yet so short and simple! One of the best of Montgomery’s short stories, I think. I love the Girl—she’s so cute and intense—and I love the Young Man, so loyal and upright…
“She is his heart's lady, and the thought of her abides with him as a safeguard and an inspiration. For her sake he resolves to make the most of himself, and live a clean, loyal life. When she comes to him she must find his heart fit to receive her. There is never a time in all his life when the dream of her does not gleam before him as of a star to which he may aspire with all reverence and love.”
V. Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket
5 stars. This is absolutely going to the top of the list as one of my favourite Christmas stories EVER. Good setting? Check! Who doesn’t love the good old-fashioned country setting? Plot? Check! With all the excitement of being trapped in a train during a blizzard, but complete comfort and happiness instead of anxiety. Engaging characters? Check! I want to be an Aunt Cyrilla when I grow up—practical, comforting, wise, and totally unworried by what people think of her. Lucy Rose is sweet, and I like her arc. As for the passengers—they’re barely detailed, and yet they’re so vibrant! The hurting old rich lady, the sweet lonely shop girl, the poor helpless mother, the hearty innocent kids, the noble boyish soldier, and the forgotten warmhearted minister… they’re such a lovely cast and I almost wish I could read more of them. The humour is Montgomery’s own, and the sweet message just fills you up with Christmas Spirit—but is also good for every day of the year.
VI. Davenport’s Story
1 star. Montgomery has a thing for ghost stories… and I don’t.
VII. Emily’s Husband
2.7 stars (3/10 hearts). Emily Fair has never seen or spoken to her husband since the day, five years ago, that she left his house after a quarrel. Her siblings hate him as much as she does, and his name is never even mentioned. But Emily’s husband is now at death’s door…
It’s one of Montgomery’s wild Gothic stories, full of passion and drama, a little dark even. Thankfully the ending wasn’t what I expected but it’s still an intense tale, and not my favourite.
VIII. Min
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). This Gothic tale appeals to me… at least the beginning thereof, because the ending makes me so sorry. It’s sad and solemn—the story of a soul who could have been so much more but was tied down by hatred and finally succumbed to it… yet there is a thread of redemption too, only I wish it was stronger! I love the message of the minister’s storyline, though the romance is too fast and too melodramatic for my liking. It’s not one of Montgomery’s dark, wild tales, but it’s definitely more serious and thought-provoking than her usual stories.
IX. Miss Cordelia’s Accommodation
4 stars. What a sweet, lovely, wholesome little romance! Miss Cordelia is a darling woman, so practical and tender and generous, and Mr. Smiles is such a splendid fellow. I love their heart for the factory children. It’s just an absolutely cute and delightful story.
X. Ned’s Stroke of Business
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). There’s no pond for the boys to skate on and Ned has no money for school. But Old Dutcher has both money and a pond… can Ned combine the two in a stroke of business?
Ned is such a nice, upright boy and I love his enterprise. There’s just something about community stories that appeals to me, and I really enjoy reading about the different people of the town... A story well done.
XI. Our Runaway Kite
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). Claude & Philippa were just trying to fix their kite when they pasted that old letter on it, but they never imagined the result when their kite got away from them…
This is a cute, humorous little story with a lovely setting—lighthouses are just cool. The children are delightful, and Montgomery is SO good at writing child narratives!
XII. The Bride Roses
4 stars. I’m sure Miss Corona, like Miss Sally from Miss Sally’s Company must be the ancestor of Miss Lavender in Anne of Avonlea, and Charlotta, like Julianna from M.S.C., the ancestor of Charlotta the Fourth from A.o.A. Sweet as she is, Miss Corona can’t quite compare to Miss L.; but C. the Fourth is a much better handmaid, however. Also, Juliet is a darling girl. Of course I love the roses, and the little romance, and I also love the reconciliation storyline! It’s a super sweet story.
XIII. The Josephs’ Christmas
5 stars. What a delightful Christmas story!! It’s so sweet and Christmassy and old-fashioned and well-developed. Another of my favourite Montgomery stories!
XIV. The Magical Bond of the Sea
4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). This is a very typically Montgomery story—drama, romance, and beautiful seascapes. A rich couple adopting a shore girl; a gorgeous heroine; a silent hero with unrequited love (for a time); a rich, unlovable rival; homesickness and family ties… and the most gorgeous descriptions. I love Nora’s lesson, and the whole story is just my cuppa tea.
Content: A kiss.
XV. The Martyrdom of Estella
2 stars. This story always takes me by surprise. It’s very intense, rather dark… I despise Spencer, hate Vivienne, and feel so sorry for Estella. So passionate, but so unhappy.
Content: Suicidal thoughts; a woman in an immodest dress; tawdry scene with a drunk character; a kiss or two; a fiancé who falls in love with a different woman.
XVI. The Old Chest at Wyther Grange
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). I don't know why, I have a fondness for stories of unrequited love/faithless fiancés/lost love. Perhaps it’s the fault of all those folk songs I love? Anyways, I quite liked this story. I love the setting SO much, and the characters are fantastic. Grandmother and Aunt Winnifred are lovely (Grandmother’s comments on handwriting crack me up. I wonder what “fine ladylike script” and “modern sprawly, untidy hands” she was referring to—and what she’d think of 2000’s writing!), while Eliza sounds so sweet and pathetic; while the villain reminds me of Willoughby —only worse. And for some reason the trunk unpacking is something I love (reminds me of The Little Brown Book of Miss Emily ). The story’s plot was mostly reused in The Golden Road, but it has extra touches here that are more fascinating, and it reminds me of The Red Room, but without the gothicness—just the sorrow and injustice of real life… it breaks my heart, but also speaks to me.
XVII. The Osbornes' Christmas
4 stars. Such a sweet, fun Christmas story! The Osbornes were so cute and funny, and I loved the plot, and the aunt! Great little story to get into the Christmas spirit.
XVIII. The Romance of Aunt Beatrice
3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). Aunt Beatrice here reminded me of Miss Ponsonby. She’s so sweet and I feel so sorry for her! Margaret was a super nice girl, but I do not care at all for Uncle George and Aunt Bella. Mr. Reynolds seems a nice man, though. I love the stories about old lovers separated by quarrels, family, or circumstances meeting and rekindling the flame. It’s just a really sweet little romance. <3
Content: 1 kiss mentioned.
XIX. The Running Away of Chester
5 stars. I have always loved this story, ever since I first read it in Akin to Anne: Tales of Other Orphans. It’s sweet and heartwarming, with the loveliest characters—hardworking Chester, innocent Miss Salome, hardboiled and kind-hearted Clementiny… and a hateful villain. Chester’s adventures captured my adventures as a child and still command all my interest, and of course the writing style and humour are excellent. The dénouement is perfectly satisfying, and I adore the old-fashioned, countryside, and small-community feels of the whole piece.
XX. The Strike at Putney
4 stars. The men of Putney church refuse to allow a visiting missionary give her talk to the W.F.M. Auxiliary from the pulpit, citing “direct contravention to the teachings of St. Paul.” And to show them the folly of this decision, the women of the church promptly refuse to carry out any more work for the church, since women “haven't any business to meddle in church matters.”
It’s a delightfully humorous story, reminding me of Grace S. Richmond’s On Christmas Day in the Morning and that type of wholesome “homespun” community stories. I enjoyed seeing the silly fellows admit their mistake and realize just how much work the women put into the church!
XXI. The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar
5 stars. Frances Farquhar was jilted by a handsome, unscrupulous fiancé, and she’s too preoccupied with her own broken heart to do anything but cry herself sick over the worthless fellow. Aunt Eleanor’s quiet countryside home is just what she needs to recover, but it’s not until Frances starts opening her eyes to the pain around her that she finds healing.
I love the message of this story! Frances was a nice girl, and I really liked Corona and Elliott. Aunt Eleanor is a wise old woman, and Jacky & his mother were so piteous. The setting was lovely and the plotline so nice… it’s just a sweet little romance. <3
XXII. Why Mr. Cropper Changed His Mind
3 stars. Mr. Cropper’s sons won’t behave at school, and Esther’s in danger of losing the job if she can’t control them. But Mr. Cropper says he won’t do anything to help her… until Esther accidentally stumbles across a useful piece of blackmail.
It’s kind of a humorous story... but not quite my style. I just don't like blackmailing, even if in this case she was right and Mr. Cropper was totally not... 🤷🏻♀️
January 31, 2018
This is a delightful collection of Montgomery's short works from the years of 1902 and 1903. I'm wanting to read all of her short stories, and making my way through them, year by year. This is the second such volume.
Many of the works included would make great moral stories for young readers. Others feature romance as the driving element, and would be intended for adults (although they're so tame and sweet, teen girls could enjoy them). Some of the themes covered include reconciliation, finding love at last, and in some cases, orphans finding their forever home.
Here's a bit about a few of my favorite stories in this volume:
Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket: A delightful holiday story. While it may or may not be too original, it's charming. Kindness reigns in the end.
Miss Cordelia's Accommodation: Ah! At least, Montgomery's royal and fabled heroine makes her appearance. Cordelia knows she rules as a queen over her four-acre domain. This story just shines with happiness and generosity.
Ned's Stroke of Business: Now, this boy has a head on his shoulders! I found myself so attached to this story... I'm still not sure if it's the thought of the ice skating, or the hard challenge that has to be plowed through, or the genius idea of Ned's... but I liked his story.
The Bride Roses: What a romantic tale... and it ties a family back together again!
The Strike at Putney: Fabulous and hilarious! The people of the Putney church are dividing against the issue of allowing a female missionary to speak at the pulpit. The church splits down the middle, between men and women on the subject. Oh, what fun those women have in battle!
The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar: I like this one because it's a plain-and-simple story that shows how you get on better in life if you don't mope about your problems.
Why Mr. Cropper Changed His Mind: This plucky schoolteacher knows how to create leverage – by obtaining evidence with her kodak. You go, girl!
These stories may be old-fashioned... but... well, that's part of their charm!
Many of the works included would make great moral stories for young readers. Others feature romance as the driving element, and would be intended for adults (although they're so tame and sweet, teen girls could enjoy them). Some of the themes covered include reconciliation, finding love at last, and in some cases, orphans finding their forever home.
Here's a bit about a few of my favorite stories in this volume:
Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket: A delightful holiday story. While it may or may not be too original, it's charming. Kindness reigns in the end.
Miss Cordelia's Accommodation: Ah! At least, Montgomery's royal and fabled heroine makes her appearance. Cordelia knows she rules as a queen over her four-acre domain. This story just shines with happiness and generosity.
Ned's Stroke of Business: Now, this boy has a head on his shoulders! I found myself so attached to this story... I'm still not sure if it's the thought of the ice skating, or the hard challenge that has to be plowed through, or the genius idea of Ned's... but I liked his story.
The Bride Roses: What a romantic tale... and it ties a family back together again!
The Strike at Putney: Fabulous and hilarious! The people of the Putney church are dividing against the issue of allowing a female missionary to speak at the pulpit. The church splits down the middle, between men and women on the subject. Oh, what fun those women have in battle!
The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar: I like this one because it's a plain-and-simple story that shows how you get on better in life if you don't mope about your problems.
Why Mr. Cropper Changed His Mind: This plucky schoolteacher knows how to create leverage – by obtaining evidence with her kodak. You go, girl!
These stories may be old-fashioned... but... well, that's part of their charm!
July 7, 2025
In this second chronological short story collection I could really see the improvement in L.M. Montgomery's writing in comparison to her earlier collection.
Themes are repetitive sometimes, but I like the familiarity of her stories. There is something comforting in that.
Of course, they are naive and romantic.
Also it is fun to see some character names that will be reused in her later, more famous works (I mean - Cordelia!!! - someone with a last name Starr!?). That really feels like an inside joke 🙂
Themes are repetitive sometimes, but I like the familiarity of her stories. There is something comforting in that.
Of course, they are naive and romantic.
Also it is fun to see some character names that will be reused in her later, more famous works (I mean - Cordelia!!! - someone with a last name Starr!?). That really feels like an inside joke 🙂
April 4, 2019
Funny and charming, always a pleasure to read, especially when stuck somewhere waiting (thanks, Project Gutenberg). Will continue reading the next collection.
Want to read
May 26, 2015I own and have enjoyed all of LM Montgomery's novels and expected to like her short stories just as much. Sadly, this was not to be. One of the major reasons I have decided not to continue with this volume is the quality of the Librivox readers. It seems that these volumes are a sort of practice ground for new and developing narrators. While some of them are quite good, others are still needing more practice.
I'm also of the opinion now that LM Montgomery was a better novelist than short story writer. There is a certain repetition of themes, plots and ideas in her stories, and this is more noticeable in the confines of a short story than in her novels, which give room for fuller character development and plot. Some of her short stories are very good, but at this point in time I lack motivation to plough through them.
I'm also of the opinion now that LM Montgomery was a better novelist than short story writer. There is a certain repetition of themes, plots and ideas in her stories, and this is more noticeable in the confines of a short story than in her novels, which give room for fuller character development and plot. Some of her short stories are very good, but at this point in time I lack motivation to plough through them.
August 12, 2012
A wonderful selection of short stories over all kinds of topics, although the three Christmas stories are very alike. It is hard for me to pick a favorite but The Running Away of Chester is one of them with its very detailed description of Chester's plight. And The Strike at Putney is hilarious and quite unusual. As for romances I have always liked An Unconventional Confidence and it still holds its charm.
January 4, 2010
Yet another delightful grouping of LMM's works. I read this on the Kindle for free.
September 26, 2016
In case it isn't clear, I love all things Montgomery. Really enjoying the short stories.
August 8, 2024
Pleasant short stories with a happy ending to make you feel good.
November 10, 2025
Forgot to mark this. Enjoyable stories; I see an artist developing.
February 2, 2014
L. M. Montgomery shines again in this second compilation of her short stories, this time those that were published in 1902-1903. The same whimsical, funny, and wholesome sweetness that she would later become known for in her Anne Shirley series, was on display in these earlier published tales.
I won't say much on the overall quality of the writing, as that was already covered in the review on the first volume of the short stories, those between 1896-1901. The quality is vintage Montgomery, except that it did, in fact, become a bit better. You can see her skills improving as she continues to hone her craft.
The main thought of mine about these stories, is that the diversity of story was mixed. It seemed as if the “formula” that many have noticed in the later Anne Shirley and Emily books was very much on display in the stories of this period. But in such a short format, the effect was kind of boring, to say the least, as there was no real drama or chronicle of a life lived. Indeed, for most of these stories, the reader could interchange the characters with little difficulty.
At the end of the period that the short story collection chronicles, during 1903, this changed, and Montgomery wrote some very good short stories. Indeed, I was captivated by these later entries, even if one of them was a tad too much on the sad side for me.
Overall, despite the improved writing skills, most of the stories written during this period were a too whimsical and formulaic for my tastes. Very little of the romance and excitement, of the “magic” of L. M. Montgomery's writing, could come through. Not, at least, in the way they did in the earlier stories. To compare, this second volume (again, except for the later stories compiled therein) would be like if on took only the humor of the tales of Anne Shirley's life, and none of the actual events and characterization that make her so beloved. Certainly enjoyable to read, but overall a dry spell for Montgomery literary career. One she thankfully moved past by the time of the later tales.
Recommended.
I won't say much on the overall quality of the writing, as that was already covered in the review on the first volume of the short stories, those between 1896-1901. The quality is vintage Montgomery, except that it did, in fact, become a bit better. You can see her skills improving as she continues to hone her craft.
The main thought of mine about these stories, is that the diversity of story was mixed. It seemed as if the “formula” that many have noticed in the later Anne Shirley and Emily books was very much on display in the stories of this period. But in such a short format, the effect was kind of boring, to say the least, as there was no real drama or chronicle of a life lived. Indeed, for most of these stories, the reader could interchange the characters with little difficulty.
At the end of the period that the short story collection chronicles, during 1903, this changed, and Montgomery wrote some very good short stories. Indeed, I was captivated by these later entries, even if one of them was a tad too much on the sad side for me.
Overall, despite the improved writing skills, most of the stories written during this period were a too whimsical and formulaic for my tastes. Very little of the romance and excitement, of the “magic” of L. M. Montgomery's writing, could come through. Not, at least, in the way they did in the earlier stories. To compare, this second volume (again, except for the later stories compiled therein) would be like if on took only the humor of the tales of Anne Shirley's life, and none of the actual events and characterization that make her so beloved. Certainly enjoyable to read, but overall a dry spell for Montgomery literary career. One she thankfully moved past by the time of the later tales.
Recommended.
January 8, 2023
L.M. Montgomery is a genius. Probably many people have said that, but I mean it. I've been absorbing all her short stories over the past four days, and though I like the 'him-her' ones best, they're all fantastic.
In the later ones there's hints of Anne's House of Dreams and Anne of Avonlea, and even an entire chapter from Anne of Green Gables, but I don't mind. And wouldn't it be funny if that 'short story' is what prompted all of Anne?
The stories are from 1899 to 1928, and there are certain threads that pass through all of them. There's the Christmassy stories— making Christmas cheerful for someone who can't afford it, women-haters or man-haters who become reconciled to the opposite sex in time, old maids getting married, long-lost loves that come back, orphans who find a family member after all (rich, at times), and all sorts of absolutely delicious things.
In the later ones there's hints of Anne's House of Dreams and Anne of Avonlea, and even an entire chapter from Anne of Green Gables, but I don't mind. And wouldn't it be funny if that 'short story' is what prompted all of Anne?
The stories are from 1899 to 1928, and there are certain threads that pass through all of them. There's the Christmassy stories— making Christmas cheerful for someone who can't afford it, women-haters or man-haters who become reconciled to the opposite sex in time, old maids getting married, long-lost loves that come back, orphans who find a family member after all (rich, at times), and all sorts of absolutely delicious things.
November 19, 2015
Overall I didn't like these ones as much as the previous collection; none of them really made an impression on me. Again, there were about three I already read ( Including "A Sandshore Wooing" and "The Unhappiness of Miss Farquar" which were admittedly my two favorites in the Along the Shore collection, so I guess this collection did have a couple of good ones, I'd just already read them.)
I think my favorite out of the stories I hadn't read before was "An Unconventional Confidence" although I would have loved it to be longer.
I think my favorite out of the stories I hadn't read before was "An Unconventional Confidence" although I would have loved it to be longer.
May 31, 2013
These stories were sort of whimsical. Often they had sad or prideful elements, and the conflicts were always characters clashing with other characters. In the end, though, some happy conclusion was reached, often by one of the characters admitting a mistake on their part and apologizing, which was interesting. I enjoyed these but wasn't necessarily moved by them.
August 2, 2017
I enjoy listening to these while I am working. L. M. Montgomery surely did have and use her gift from God! Some of these made me laugh out loud while I listened to them from loyalbooks.com
The fact that they are old fashioned gives them charm and you can tell human nature has not changed, make a few slight changes and these stories could be made to sound as if they came from today's times!
The fact that they are old fashioned gives them charm and you can tell human nature has not changed, make a few slight changes and these stories could be made to sound as if they came from today's times!
December 30, 2011
I've been listening to these on Librivox. Some of the readers are great and some are well...not. Some of the stories feel like they came straight from Louisa May Alcott. And others are so incredibly sappy that I laugh. But they make my kitchen chores go by quickly and I've been enjoying myself.
July 31, 2012
Again, if you enjoy simple, well-written, happy-ending stories, then you are going to love this collection by L.M. Montgomery. These are what I would consider to be, perfect bedtime reading. I go to sleep, happy, content that all is right in the world. Or at least in her world.
January 10, 2011
My favorites are: An Unconventional Confidence, The Bride Roses, The Old Chest at Wyther Grange, The Romance of Aunt Beatrice, The Martyrdom of Estelle, and The Running Away of Chester.
February 1, 2011
More lovely short stories from L.M. Montgomery. They are so full of fun characters and it's very easy to get into each story.
Read
April 15, 2012I am currently listening to this on Librivox and enjoying it very much. I confess to often being prompted to tears by these lovely corny stories.
February 18, 2013
Like the previous collection, these are enjoyable but brief reads - it's still interesting to see when she's reused an idea or plot.
February 8, 2015
The stories are improving and there were a lot that were 4 star quality.
December 26, 2013
An excellent group of short stories by Montgomery, one of my favorite. What a nice way to finish off another wonderful year of reading.
July 29, 2014
Add this author to my list of favorites. Sweet stories with happy endings.
September 9, 2015
lots of little stories. As always I wish they were longer and had more detail
March 4, 2018
Sweet
Sweet little short stories with moralistic and (mostly) happy endings -- good triumphant over evil. Nice soothing bed time reading.
Sweet little short stories with moralistic and (mostly) happy endings -- good triumphant over evil. Nice soothing bed time reading.
November 12, 2018
Classic LMM
Great stories that are easy reads. Characters that pop off the pages in just a few short sentences, will keep your interest engaged.
Great stories that are easy reads. Characters that pop off the pages in just a few short sentences, will keep your interest engaged.
June 19, 2023
A wonderfully solid collection of short stories! I don't know if I was just more in the mood for it this time or if the tonality of these stories was different, but I found this to be a real improvement on the previous story collection (1896-1901). I think a lot of it probably is my mood this go around (being hormonal has made a lot of the more touchy feely woo woo stories more palatable and less cringeworthy right now and I read the romantic stories the way I did when I was in high school and less like a near 36 year old cynical spinster.)
While I would heartily recommend all of these stories, the ones that stuck out to me particularly were: "An Unconventional Confidence," "Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket," The Magical Bond of the Sea," "The Martyrdom of Estella," "The Running Away of Chester," "The Strike at Putney," and "The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar."
Reading "The Strike at Putney" during this time felt particularly providential because one of the mainline denominations of my faith just declared that women are not allowed to have any positions of authority in church life, and so reading about how difficult the men in the Putney church had it once women stopped doing *anything* church related -- all the community events and fundraising and the small things that make a church run -- was HILARIOUS and vindicating. And honestly a pretty good idea. I mean, I'm Baptist, not Presbyterian, but I think that just means that church life would get hit even harder for us. I mean, we're all about fellowship (aka food and conversations), so...men would be up the creek.
Also, "The Old Chest at Wyther Grange," later got worked into one of Montgomery's novels as a chapter in the larger story. Don't ask me which novel it was cos I read them all close together (I do know it wasn't any of the Anne of Green Gables books though or The Blue Castle. I think it may possibly have been one of the Emily Starr books or Magic for Marigold.) I just know it stuck out to me when I read it that I had read the same story from her recently, but it had been part of a larger narrative.
While I would heartily recommend all of these stories, the ones that stuck out to me particularly were: "An Unconventional Confidence," "Aunt Cyrilla's Christmas Basket," The Magical Bond of the Sea," "The Martyrdom of Estella," "The Running Away of Chester," "The Strike at Putney," and "The Unhappiness of Miss Farquhar."
Reading "The Strike at Putney" during this time felt particularly providential because one of the mainline denominations of my faith just declared that women are not allowed to have any positions of authority in church life, and so reading about how difficult the men in the Putney church had it once women stopped doing *anything* church related -- all the community events and fundraising and the small things that make a church run -- was HILARIOUS and vindicating. And honestly a pretty good idea. I mean, I'm Baptist, not Presbyterian, but I think that just means that church life would get hit even harder for us. I mean, we're all about fellowship (aka food and conversations), so...men would be up the creek.
Also, "The Old Chest at Wyther Grange," later got worked into one of Montgomery's novels as a chapter in the larger story. Don't ask me which novel it was cos I read them all close together (I do know it wasn't any of the Anne of Green Gables books though or The Blue Castle. I think it may possibly have been one of the Emily Starr books or Magic for Marigold.) I just know it stuck out to me when I read it that I had read the same story from her recently, but it had been part of a larger narrative.
April 23, 2024
Lucy Maud Montgomery's writings are all absolutely identifiable as hers, which can be both a commendation and a criticism. When you want something that feels like a Montgomery, any collection of her short stories will do. But it could be argued that there is weakness in the fact that none of them stand out as unique.
It's April and I'm 15 books into my Year of Montgomery, and I'm still delighted, so they're clearly working for me.
It's April and I'm 15 books into my Year of Montgomery, and I'm still delighted, so they're clearly working for me.
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