100 Years Ago Today - Anne of Green Gables

It's 1908 and Lucy Maud Montgomery has just received the first copy of her book "Anne of Green Gables". Little does she know that what she holds in her hands will become known and loved the world over. There will be a musical, tours of the house that inspired her, an invasion of tourists and enough Anne related material to drive Prince Edward Islanders up the proverbial wall.

I really appreciate the fact that her books became so popular, the story universally identifiable. It helped put PEI on the map as a destination for international tourists, showing off the beautiful countryside. (I've only seen pictures. But one day, I'm going to take the Maritimes by storm). As far as I know it made her one of the first globally known authors from Canada, putting us on the map. And you can't forget the story itself. Who can forget the "auburn-haired" little girl in pigtails with a flair for the dramatic?

But here's where I have to admit my dirty little secret. I've never actually finished the book. *pause for effect* Now here me out before you start haranguing me. I received a beautiful hardcover edition when I was about nine and over the years I would start reading, get about halfway through and get distracted. Then I would start again, having forgotten key events and plow through the book before getting distracted again. Today I have plenty of time on my hands but the book is on the mainland, hours away and I only want to read the story from that book. I know it's weird but that's how I operate. I suppose now is also the time to admit that I have a hardcover edition of "The Jungle Book" I also haven't finished. *hangs head in shame*

But I do have a favourite scene. I almost wished I was Anne when she smashed her slate over Gilbert's head. I myself have never smashed a slate on someone's head but I imagine it must be immensely satisfying. Oh and "C-H-R-Y-S-A-N-T-H-E-U-M". That too.

If I manage to get home sometime this year, I will definitely read the book and then all of you can stop being disgusted. Don't worry I understand how you must feel. I have the same problem with people who've never seen "The Wizard of Oz". I mean come on. What are you waiting for? To be fair though, I haven't read that book either.