Anne Shirley, the main character in L. M. Montgomery's acclaimed novel Anne of Green Gables, is introduced to readers as a sad figure, an orphan without a person in the world who loves her. Despite her lonely introduction, Anne has captured the hearts of generations of young women.
This year, the book turned 100. Putnam released a special edition, and Anne lovers flocked to Prince Edward Island — the Canadian province that serves as the pictorial setting for Green Gables and a modern-day tourist hotspot for fans — for musicals and festivals for the centennial.
Anne's slate chalkboard doesn’t have much in common with the text messages young girls favor today, but children's librarians and other experts say young girls still find a kindred spirit in Anne.
Just how, in the name of Harry Potter, has she remained so popular?
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