Where to start withAnne of Green Gables

3 versions · originally a book, 1908

Themes: Orphanhood, Adoption, Imagination, Nature, Female Friendship.

Start with Anne of Green Gables (1985) — the series. Anne of Green Gables exists in 3 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1908; each is ranked below by what it does best.

The enduring legacy of Anne of Green Gables lies in the transformative power of a spirited, imaginative outsider finding belonging.

✦ Most fans start here

Anne of Green Gables (1985)

Anne of Green Gables

The original novel

Anne of Green Gables

Lucy Maud Montgomery · Book · 1908

Anne of Green Gables (1908) is the essential source material. The novel offers the most intimate look at Anne’s internal monologue and the charming, pastoral world Montgomery originally envisioned.

Anne of Green Gables

1985 series

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Anne of Green Gables

Series · 1985

Anne of Green Gables (1985) is the definitive screen adaptation. It captures the precocious, romantic charm of Anne’s personality with near-perfect fidelity, making it the gold standard for visual storytelling.

Anne with an E

2017 series

Anne with an E

Moira Walley-Beckett · Series · 2017

Anne with an E (2017) offers a gritty, modern reimagining. It focuses on the harsh realities of an abusive childhood and the struggle for acceptance, targeting viewers who prefer darker, grounded themes.

Common questions

What order should I consume the Anne of Green Gables content?

You should begin with the original 1908 Anne of Green Gables book to understand the source material. Once completed, you can explore the 1985 television adaptation or the 2017 series Anne with an E to see different interpretations of the classic story.

Is Anne of Green Gables a book or a television show?

Anne of Green Gables is primarily a book published in 1908. Due to its popularity, it has been adapted into various formats, including the 1985 television miniseries and the 2017 television show titled Anne with an E.

How long is the Anne of Green Gables television show from 1985?

The 1985 television adaptation of Anne of Green Gables is a miniseries. While the total runtime varies by viewing platform, it is designed to cover the narrative arc of the original 1908 book through a multi-part broadcast format.

Should I watch Anne with an E if I enjoyed the Anne of Green Gables book?

If you enjoyed the 1908 Anne of Green Gables book, you may watch Anne with an E to see a modern television interpretation of the story. The series is based on the source material while offering a distinct creative approach to the classic narrative.

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