OK, I recently posted about this book before finishing this book. Though it may have been wiser to have withheld my judgment, I still stand by it as it was a snapshot of my perception of the book at that moment in time. Nevertheless, the ending of the book really did it for me. It shows Anne truly growing up, maturing, prioritizing, achieving, being hit with reality. She achieves and receives accolades such as passing the exam and getting the scholarship. However, with the news of Matthew's health and eventual death, the Cuthbert's financial situation that may have to result in them selling Green Gables, and Marilla's declining eyesight, the fact that Anne was willing to forego her scholarship to pursue a local teaching program to be closer to Marilla speaks volumes of her characters. During this segment, the emotional weight and dialogue and revelations were delivered and paced very well as they were well-deserved and not too out of the blue. I like that Anne doesn't forget where she came from and who helped her. Though the book did mention that she does talk a little bit less over time, she hasn't lost her personality and heart. I also like that she truly learned from her past mistakes and eventually learns to forgive herself. The cherry on top was the sacrifice that Gilbert made so that Anne could teach at a school closer to her home. However, Anne understands that it came from a place of respect and receives this gesture graciously. It goes to show that one's pride and immaturity may deprive one of a friendship and result in lost time, though it's better late than never.
The majority definitely made the ending more worthwhile and deserved. Maybe the ending was more relatable as it appropriately transitions Anne through adolescence (and eventual adulthood in the sequels). I may not jump to those sequels right away, but I do realize this book's merit and understand why it's a classic.
by thunderdragon517