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Magic for Marigold
The eccentric Lesley family could not agree on what to name Lorraine's new baby girl even after four months. Lorraine secretly liked the name Marigold, but who would ever agree to such a fanciful name as that? When the baby falls ill and gentle Dr. M. Woodruff Richards saves her life, the family decides to name the child after the good doctor. But a girl named Woodruff? How fortunate that Dr. Richards's seldom-used first name turns out to be . . . Marigold! A child with such an unusual name is destined for adventure. It all begins the day Marigold meets a girl in a beautiful green dress who claims to be a real-life princess. . . .
274 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1925
About the author
L.M. Montgomery
1,935 books10.9k 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 220 reviews
March 16, 2021
Although L.M. Montgomery's 1925 Magic for Marigold has most definitely been a delightful and relaxing way to spend a few reading hours, I do have to admit that the episodic nature of the novel and that far far too often one chapter does not necessarily smoothly move and transfer into the next has kind of taken at least some of the shine off of my potential reading pleasure (and in particular since quite a few of the Magic for Marigold anecdotes and stories have not really felt all that engaging to and for me on a personal reading expectation level in and of themselves, which is kind of ironic since Marigold always wants her world to be interesting and entertaining).
And while I have indeed found L.M. Montgomery's descriptions of the Lesley clan enlightening with regard to time, place and the importance of family traditions as well as often also being humorous and sometimes even laugh-out-loud hilarious, I have definitely enjoyed the first part of Magic for Marigold (with Old Grandmother and yes especially that very first chapter where the entire family is debating and discussing what the new Lesley infant should be called) considerably more than what happens to the Lesley family and to Marigold herself after Old Grandmother's death (with Marigold's continuous jealousy of her late father's equally deceased first wife feeling rather personally uncomfortable, and I certainly do have my issues with how often Young Grandmother tries to "cure" Marigold of her invisible friend Sylvia, not to mention that Marigold's mother generally and far too regularly and easily refuses to interfere when Young Grandmother is overreacting and wielding a rather heavy-duty and problematic amount of supposedly necessary discipline and generally first and foremost just because Marigold is rather imaginative and fanciful and has imaginary, invisible playmates).
Still, I have found Magic for Marigold a for the most part sweet and readable little tale and while of course and naturally not as dear to my heart as either the Anne of Green Gables, the Emily of New Moon and The Story Girl series or as stand-alone novel Jane of Lantern Hill, I do consider Magic for Marigold basically delightful and very much enjoyably readable (generally a four star reading experience, but lowered to a high three stars since I have definitely and personally found the ending of Magic for Marigold a wee bit abrupt and hanging in mid air so to speak and yes I do kind of think that the book title of Magic for Marigold might be a trifle misleading as most of the episodes described by L.M. Montgomery except perhaps the parts about Marigold's imaginary friend Silvia do not really involve any kind of actual or bona fide magic, are simply short little anecdotes about the Lesley family and Marigold's childhood as a member of said family).
And while I have indeed found L.M. Montgomery's descriptions of the Lesley clan enlightening with regard to time, place and the importance of family traditions as well as often also being humorous and sometimes even laugh-out-loud hilarious, I have definitely enjoyed the first part of Magic for Marigold (with Old Grandmother and yes especially that very first chapter where the entire family is debating and discussing what the new Lesley infant should be called) considerably more than what happens to the Lesley family and to Marigold herself after Old Grandmother's death (with Marigold's continuous jealousy of her late father's equally deceased first wife feeling rather personally uncomfortable, and I certainly do have my issues with how often Young Grandmother tries to "cure" Marigold of her invisible friend Sylvia, not to mention that Marigold's mother generally and far too regularly and easily refuses to interfere when Young Grandmother is overreacting and wielding a rather heavy-duty and problematic amount of supposedly necessary discipline and generally first and foremost just because Marigold is rather imaginative and fanciful and has imaginary, invisible playmates).
Still, I have found Magic for Marigold a for the most part sweet and readable little tale and while of course and naturally not as dear to my heart as either the Anne of Green Gables, the Emily of New Moon and The Story Girl series or as stand-alone novel Jane of Lantern Hill, I do consider Magic for Marigold basically delightful and very much enjoyably readable (generally a four star reading experience, but lowered to a high three stars since I have definitely and personally found the ending of Magic for Marigold a wee bit abrupt and hanging in mid air so to speak and yes I do kind of think that the book title of Magic for Marigold might be a trifle misleading as most of the episodes described by L.M. Montgomery except perhaps the parts about Marigold's imaginary friend Silvia do not really involve any kind of actual or bona fide magic, are simply short little anecdotes about the Lesley family and Marigold's childhood as a member of said family).
March 28, 2019
Lovely and whimsical, just not my FAVORITE L M Montgomery. Some chapters were pure magic, though, and I loved so many of the supporting cast. Particularly Uncle Klon and Aunt Marigold.
December 24, 2019
If you've read any books by L.M. Montgomery before, then you pretty much know what to expect with this one -- and adventurous child growing up during the 1920's in Canada. She likes to daydream, has a little bit of sass, and gets into quite a bit of trouble. I don't think that this novel is as strong as Montgomery's other novels, but Marigold and her family members are still enjoyable characters who get into some fun predicaments.
What I think was missing from this novel was a central theme or focus; the book didn't really go anywhere and while there was some small amount of personal growth for Marigold, it wasn't enough to warrant the length of the book. But that was the only thing that I had trouble with -- I loved reading about Marigold's adventures, and this book certainly has some laugh-out-loud moments. Basically, it's a decent enough read if you have the time or if you're a Montgomery fan. But I would suggest that you read Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables or Emily of New Moon series before you pick up this one.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
What I think was missing from this novel was a central theme or focus; the book didn't really go anywhere and while there was some small amount of personal growth for Marigold, it wasn't enough to warrant the length of the book. But that was the only thing that I had trouble with -- I loved reading about Marigold's adventures, and this book certainly has some laugh-out-loud moments. Basically, it's a decent enough read if you have the time or if you're a Montgomery fan. But I would suggest that you read Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables or Emily of New Moon series before you pick up this one.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
August 6, 2017
Lovely lovely lovely ♥️♥️ There isn't a book by L.M. Montgomery that I don't enjoy.
Marigold was the funniest, most adorable girl... the family aspect is wonderfully crafted by the author, as per usual.
I don't know an author who tells a story so well, balancing characters, family dynamics, funny dialogue and description, namely the nature aspect that this amazing woman always complemented her novels with.
Another character, another lovely name. Marigold. I say this in every review but it's true: where did this woman come up with the most beautiful names?
My most beloved author. The Blue Castle remains my favorite but Marigold is gold as well, just like Anne and Gilbert (my dream husband ahahah).
Recommend Marigold to everyone who wants to visit some wonderful memories of heir childhood. I certainly did, especially that part when Marigold is all excited to go to some relative's house to spend the night and when she gets there she's crying for her kittens and her mommy.
Ahahaha just like I did when I was her age.
It's like Barbra Streisand used to sing: "Memories... light the corners of my mind".
Marigold was the funniest, most adorable girl... the family aspect is wonderfully crafted by the author, as per usual.
I don't know an author who tells a story so well, balancing characters, family dynamics, funny dialogue and description, namely the nature aspect that this amazing woman always complemented her novels with.
Another character, another lovely name. Marigold. I say this in every review but it's true: where did this woman come up with the most beautiful names?
My most beloved author. The Blue Castle remains my favorite but Marigold is gold as well, just like Anne and Gilbert (my dream husband ahahah).
Recommend Marigold to everyone who wants to visit some wonderful memories of heir childhood. I certainly did, especially that part when Marigold is all excited to go to some relative's house to spend the night and when she gets there she's crying for her kittens and her mommy.
Ahahaha just like I did when I was her age.
It's like Barbra Streisand used to sing: "Memories... light the corners of my mind".
December 16, 2007
Happy tweeness about a classic L. M. Montgomery heroine, until the very last chapter, which is called 'The Chrism of Womanhood' and is pretty much as hideous as it sounds. I don't exactly disagree with one of the basic ideas, which is that you have to share the people you love with other people and that's what it means to be grown up. I do object to the other basic idea, which is that it is the fate and sacred duty of Woman to hang around waiting patiently while her man goes off and does whatever -- has fun, does his job, etc. -- and to embrace him uncomplainingly when he returns and listen to his complaints and make him feel important. Jeez louise. She is TWELVE in the last chapter; what poison to be pouring into the mind of a twelve-year-old.
February 21, 2021
Ai biết cập nhật dùm mình bản dịch của Đinh Tị là: "Phép màu cho Marigold" với. Bản dịch mới toanh nên chưa ai cập nhật cả 😭
4.5 / 5
Dễ thương và hài hước :vvv
Trời ươi tui ghiền tác giả này từ Anne tóc đỏ. Nhân vật Anne thì từ tập 2 về sau tui ko mê nữa nhưng những câu chuyện về làng Avonlea và đảo hoàng tử Edward vẫn có sức quyến rũ ko cưỡng.
Đến vs câu chuyện về Marigold, bối cảnh vẫn là ở hòn đảo xinh đẹp này và những cư dân (nhưng ko hề liên quan j đến bộ kia nha) Nếu xét về mức độ sâu sắc, độc đáo và mơ mộng thì quyển này ko bằng Anne. Thế nhưng đây lại là một phiên bản nghịch ngợm, trẻ trung và hài hước (và chắc chắn là rất đáng đọc nếu ai đó thích văn học thiếu nhi)
Đôi khi tui ước j cuộc đời lúc nào cũng bình yên, vui nhộn như những trang sách thiếu nhi này vậy :v
4.5 / 5
Dễ thương và hài hước :vvv
Trời ươi tui ghiền tác giả này từ Anne tóc đỏ. Nhân vật Anne thì từ tập 2 về sau tui ko mê nữa nhưng những câu chuyện về làng Avonlea và đảo hoàng tử Edward vẫn có sức quyến rũ ko cưỡng.
Đến vs câu chuyện về Marigold, bối cảnh vẫn là ở hòn đảo xinh đẹp này và những cư dân (nhưng ko hề liên quan j đến bộ kia nha) Nếu xét về mức độ sâu sắc, độc đáo và mơ mộng thì quyển này ko bằng Anne. Thế nhưng đây lại là một phiên bản nghịch ngợm, trẻ trung và hài hước (và chắc chắn là rất đáng đọc nếu ai đó thích văn học thiếu nhi)
Đôi khi tui ước j cuộc đời lúc nào cũng bình yên, vui nhộn như những trang sách thiếu nhi này vậy :v
July 31, 2021
2021 reread:
I have the same reactions to this book as I have before. The first sections with the family conclave and Old Grandmother are still the best, but I enjoyed the rest of the chapters more this time. I don't understand the "Red Ink or--?" chapter. What did Marigold think Hip wrote the letter with instead of red ink? I must be missing some key information.
****
Marigold is very sensitive and impressionable, and I enjoy reading about her adventures and mishaps that result.
My favorite chapters are the ones in which Marigold's clan holds a conclave to decide what to name her, and when Old Grandmother talks to Marigold in the orchard the night of Old Grandmother's death. One drawback to the book is that I really miss Old Grandmother for the rest of it.
Montgomery was a master at depicting 'clans' with the quirks, interesting habits, and personalities of its various members. I love the 'conclaves' in her books about Marigold, Emily, and Valancy, and in A Tangled Web.
A sequel for Marigold would be nice...
The first half of the book is stronger than the second half, in my opinion, and the ending is a little disappointing. I like more closure to endings. But it's a great book, one to revisit. I love Marigold's 'int'resting, her fancies, Sylvia (how I wish I could believe in an imaginary playmate!), Aunt Marigold's gentle wisdom, Lucifer's comments, and Cloud of Spruce itself. There is beauty and magic that aches, as usual in LMM's books.
***
On a third reading, I would like more "magic"--that's the keyword of the title, after all. I want to know more about the things Marigold and Sylvia do and about Marigold's fancies. I love her adventures--they're entertaining and meaningful--but there is not enough magic in them to justify the title. Also, the ending is so abrupt. I wish there was more of a sense of closure in it.
I have the same reactions to this book as I have before. The first sections with the family conclave and Old Grandmother are still the best, but I enjoyed the rest of the chapters more this time. I don't understand the "Red Ink or--?" chapter. What did Marigold think Hip wrote the letter with instead of red ink? I must be missing some key information.
****
Marigold is very sensitive and impressionable, and I enjoy reading about her adventures and mishaps that result.
My favorite chapters are the ones in which Marigold's clan holds a conclave to decide what to name her, and when Old Grandmother talks to Marigold in the orchard the night of Old Grandmother's death. One drawback to the book is that I really miss Old Grandmother for the rest of it.
Montgomery was a master at depicting 'clans' with the quirks, interesting habits, and personalities of its various members. I love the 'conclaves' in her books about Marigold, Emily, and Valancy, and in A Tangled Web.
A sequel for Marigold would be nice...
The first half of the book is stronger than the second half, in my opinion, and the ending is a little disappointing. I like more closure to endings. But it's a great book, one to revisit. I love Marigold's 'int'resting, her fancies, Sylvia (how I wish I could believe in an imaginary playmate!), Aunt Marigold's gentle wisdom, Lucifer's comments, and Cloud of Spruce itself. There is beauty and magic that aches, as usual in LMM's books.
***
On a third reading, I would like more "magic"--that's the keyword of the title, after all. I want to know more about the things Marigold and Sylvia do and about Marigold's fancies. I love her adventures--they're entertaining and meaningful--but there is not enough magic in them to justify the title. Also, the ending is so abrupt. I wish there was more of a sense of closure in it.
August 28, 2009
I didn’t read Anne of Green Gables somewhere between nine and eleven and love the film version like all the other girls my age. In fact, it took me years after reading Magic for Marigold to finally go through the Anne series. But I wasn’t missing any of the beautiful descriptions and joyful depictions of childhood, PEI or small-town life and family, because Magic for Marigold had plenty of all of those.
The story begins at the very start of Marigold’s life, when she is known only as the still-unnamed Lesley baby. It carries on through her childhood, with anecdotes and experiences over the years, and finally ending somewhere around age twelve, or the end of childhood. Changing perceptions and friends and family happenings making up the storyline, and the adventures of an imaginative, humorous and self-contained little girl make for charming reading. There’s mischief, there’s the magic found in innocence, and there are the joys as well as the small tumbles and embarrassments that make up a truly happy childhood. This book is delightful, and is suitable for girls of all ages (perhaps even a few discriminating boys, too!).
In my quick re-read last night, I was struck by how much I enjoyed the family dynamics described in this little novel. I don’t remember paying much attention to the adults in the story as a kid, but now that I’m an adult myself, I see that they are not just window-dressing. Ms. Montgomery wrote humorously, and sometimes the intrigue, politics and foibles of the adult characters are laugh-aloud worthy. You can just see the society of the turn of the century, and hear the sharp, silly and wise voices all coming in and giving their very decided opinions…it’s quite fun!
The story begins at the very start of Marigold’s life, when she is known only as the still-unnamed Lesley baby. It carries on through her childhood, with anecdotes and experiences over the years, and finally ending somewhere around age twelve, or the end of childhood. Changing perceptions and friends and family happenings making up the storyline, and the adventures of an imaginative, humorous and self-contained little girl make for charming reading. There’s mischief, there’s the magic found in innocence, and there are the joys as well as the small tumbles and embarrassments that make up a truly happy childhood. This book is delightful, and is suitable for girls of all ages (perhaps even a few discriminating boys, too!).
In my quick re-read last night, I was struck by how much I enjoyed the family dynamics described in this little novel. I don’t remember paying much attention to the adults in the story as a kid, but now that I’m an adult myself, I see that they are not just window-dressing. Ms. Montgomery wrote humorously, and sometimes the intrigue, politics and foibles of the adult characters are laugh-aloud worthy. You can just see the society of the turn of the century, and hear the sharp, silly and wise voices all coming in and giving their very decided opinions…it’s quite fun!
July 30, 2020
Magic for Marigold was a re-read for me and a definite treat, as I haven’t read it since I was a girl.
The “magic” that Marigold experiences, reminds me of Anne and her fancies and whims. I believe that Montgomery was a fabulous writer–and she knew how to write the whimsical and magical.
Marigold is an only child to a single, widowed mother. But, Marigold isn’t without family–no, she lives with grandmothers (Old and Young) and is often surrounded by a large family of aunts and uncles and everything in between.
Marigold isn’t the most normal child in that she doesn’t crave the company of other children. Instead, she amuses herself with her cats and imaginary friends.
Set on P.E.I., the details are beautifully done. I believe Montgomery loved her island so much and was a genius at putting that love on the page.
I highly recommend Magic for Marigold for a sweet, fast read of a little girl and her magical life.
The “magic” that Marigold experiences, reminds me of Anne and her fancies and whims. I believe that Montgomery was a fabulous writer–and she knew how to write the whimsical and magical.
Marigold is an only child to a single, widowed mother. But, Marigold isn’t without family–no, she lives with grandmothers (Old and Young) and is often surrounded by a large family of aunts and uncles and everything in between.
Marigold isn’t the most normal child in that she doesn’t crave the company of other children. Instead, she amuses herself with her cats and imaginary friends.
Set on P.E.I., the details are beautifully done. I believe Montgomery loved her island so much and was a genius at putting that love on the page.
I highly recommend Magic for Marigold for a sweet, fast read of a little girl and her magical life.
March 27, 2012
I remember skimming through my cousin's copy of this as a kid and never getting into it enough to read it. It still didn't grab me this time around - taking Marigold from birth (and really, three characters in this were named Marigold? Really?) through age 12 only. She was a boring, lonely girl, and the episodic nature of the book didn't do much in her favor. She grew up, but mostly in between incidents, so it had less impact. Apparently this was cobbled together from short stories about her, and it has that feel, too. Also, that was a lousy story to end the book on, I'd have liked something a little more pro-Marigold than that.
Still, you know, lovely writing and I utterly adored Old Grandmother, despite some inconsistent characterization. Her final night was lovely, and I liked a lot of what she offered to Marigold in the way of advice.
Still, you know, lovely writing and I utterly adored Old Grandmother, despite some inconsistent characterization. Her final night was lovely, and I liked a lot of what she offered to Marigold in the way of advice.
January 30, 2014
This is probably one of my least favorites of Montgomery's works. I didn't care for the parade of childhood friends of Marigold's that we were introduced to- I never felt like I got to know any of them well, and most of them I didn't like, except for Jack, who Marigold despised. Their conversation was priceless, and I liked him much better than that horrid Gwennie. More importantly, I never felt like I really got to know Marigold herself, and I was always more interested in the side stories with the adults rather than with going on with Marigold herself. And there were several things that I felt LM Montgomery rehashed from some of her other books, as well.
It had a few good sections (such as Old Grandmother's last night), but this was definitely not a favorite.
It had a few good sections (such as Old Grandmother's last night), but this was definitely not a favorite.
May 27, 2021
I can't say that this is one of L.M. Montgomery's best works (namely because of the ending) but it is definitely a solid read. Marigold is a girl with a big imagination, and this book has plenty of delightful adventures, like the day with the princess, or her trips to various relatives' houses and the like along with her dealing with her emotions (anger, fear, the like). It's hard to not like Marigold, she tries to be a good girl and she is so spirited that it makes for a irresistible combination.
I would have given this five stars if not for the ultimately disappointing end. I know that this book was written in the twenties - the date on the inside says 1929 - and so L.M.'s work tends to be a bit old fashioned compared to today's novels. Generally, this does not bother me, as I have immensely enjoyed all of the Anne and Emily books as well as The Blue Castle and the Pat books, and Jane of Lantern Hill. However, the ending to this book was a big letdown. it was just way too sexist and contrived for my liking. Yes, Marigold is growing up, but this... come on, really. The last paragraph especially rankled me.
If you like L.M.'s other works, you'll like this one, just be ready for a stupid ending.
I would have given this five stars if not for the ultimately disappointing end. I know that this book was written in the twenties - the date on the inside says 1929 - and so L.M.'s work tends to be a bit old fashioned compared to today's novels. Generally, this does not bother me, as I have immensely enjoyed all of the Anne and Emily books as well as The Blue Castle and the Pat books, and Jane of Lantern Hill. However, the ending to this book was a big letdown. it was just way too sexist and contrived for my liking. Yes, Marigold is growing up, but this... come on, really. The last paragraph especially rankled me.
If you like L.M.'s other works, you'll like this one, just be ready for a stupid ending.
April 25, 2021
Only recommended for LM Montgomery completists. Whatever is good in this book is better in her others.
This is a story of Marigold Lesley’s life from babyhood to age 12. There is no sequel to carry her further.
Re-reading this as an adult, I am more interested in the adults in Marigold’s life, especially her wild uncle Klondike, her wise lady-doctor aunt, and her melancholy, sweet, nonentity mother who deserves more agency than she gets. But the adults are all rather ill-defined. And Marigold herself is a solitary, slightly sad little figure of childhood, even though she does have adventures she finds “int’resting.”
This is a story of Marigold Lesley’s life from babyhood to age 12. There is no sequel to carry her further.
Re-reading this as an adult, I am more interested in the adults in Marigold’s life, especially her wild uncle Klondike, her wise lady-doctor aunt, and her melancholy, sweet, nonentity mother who deserves more agency than she gets. But the adults are all rather ill-defined. And Marigold herself is a solitary, slightly sad little figure of childhood, even though she does have adventures she finds “int’resting.”
February 17, 2016
I liked Marigold and I wish there were more stories about her. She is a bit like Emily... not as passionate, I think... but she is an engaging heroine in her own right. And this is proper LMM - she's on good form here.
In fact I liked Marigold so much, that if I'd read about her when I was a child, maybe one of my daughters would share her name. That's a lot of like.
In fact I liked Marigold so much, that if I'd read about her when I was a child, maybe one of my daughters would share her name. That's a lot of like.
January 14, 2009
The most mawkish heroine Maud ever created. She is cute beyond cute. Diabetics be warned....
January 26, 2022
Another Montgomery re-read to kick my reading year off. I never regret it. It's been awhile since I had visited with Marigold and I was glad to do so.
July 4, 2019
Buddy read with @teereads and @the.snow.child - January 2019
I’ll always be an avid devotee of L. M. Montgomery. She has such a way of capturing the beauty of nature and the world (in all it’s wonder and simplicity). And as we discussed with our little buddy read group, she has a heroine for everyone. Although, Marigold was a bit more extreme with her daydreaming and make believe than I was as a child, I still found so much to relate to. I loved her enthusiasm for “int’resting” things, her wonder about the natural world and sheer joy for living and having fun! I also fell in love with some of the secondary characters in this book. Old Grandmother, was a hoot! I do hope I’ll be as peppery and full of life as she is, when I’m old. And the names for the family’s cats, are too perfect not to mention - Lucifer and the Witch of Endor. 😂
•
This is one of Montgomery’s lesser known works, but well worth the read. I do recommend picking it up - you’ll be delighted!
I’ll always be an avid devotee of L. M. Montgomery. She has such a way of capturing the beauty of nature and the world (in all it’s wonder and simplicity). And as we discussed with our little buddy read group, she has a heroine for everyone. Although, Marigold was a bit more extreme with her daydreaming and make believe than I was as a child, I still found so much to relate to. I loved her enthusiasm for “int’resting” things, her wonder about the natural world and sheer joy for living and having fun! I also fell in love with some of the secondary characters in this book. Old Grandmother, was a hoot! I do hope I’ll be as peppery and full of life as she is, when I’m old. And the names for the family’s cats, are too perfect not to mention - Lucifer and the Witch of Endor. 😂
•
This is one of Montgomery’s lesser known works, but well worth the read. I do recommend picking it up - you’ll be delighted!
October 2, 2019
Ahoy there mateys! Even after finishing this, I cannot be sure if I ever read it before or not. The beginning felt very familiar but the ending was certainly not remembered. I do think that some of it comes down to how reading four of these books in a row shows that Montgomery did in fact recycle ideas and sometimes seemingly direct quotes from her own works. Some non-spoilers include a blue jug, jam on a tablecloth, and a Klondike uncle’s stories. I did enjoy that Marigold is a child absolutely showered with love. That was different from the women in the other three books in many ways. I also thought the beginning was brilliant. I loved the mess about the name, the entire plot with Old Grandmother, and Marigold’s early years. It was once Marigold has to go to school that the book seemed to lose its magic. I still liked it but the plot kinda gave up and became a series of almost vignettes of Marigold visiting her various relations and how she dealt with the local children. Somewhat poorly to me mind. And the ending of this was awful and abrupt and kinda sad. I wanted more for Marigold. I did however love the cats and magical feel to a lot of the story. The cats actually talk in this one and I love them. I loved how cats and kittens were basically glorified in this book. I wish I could have so many excellent “balls of fluff” around. Based on the first half, it should have been a five star read but it didn’t work out that way in the end. Arrrr!
July 4, 2010
A charming book with a charming little heroine. Magic for Marigold is not as well known as L.M. Montgomery's more famous books, such as the Anne or Emily series. After reading it, I'm not even sure why it's not more popular than it is, because I found it quite enchanting. I suppose it's because the book is even more episodic than LMM's other work and so doesn't seem to have as much of a central driving force in the story; and also, the book ends when Marigold is in her early teens and so there's no romance (though a hint of future comes in the last chapter, and to be honest it's my least favourite part of the book, I don't much like the image it gives of girls' vs. boys' roles even if that's typical of the time - but LMM's heroines aren't usually quite like that and I think Marigold has spine for much more, too!). But I think LMM is excellent at portraying children and Marigold is another lovely example - she's charming in her flights of fancy and her earnestness, but at the same time not too perfect. I found astonishingly much in her that reminded me of my own childhood and so made Marigold very dear to me. Then again, I was rather an odd child, so maybe not every reader has that experience!
Besides Marigold, I love the characters of her family, they're wonderfully drawn and feel true, and often quite hilarious. The writing is beautiful like in LMM's work in general, though I think the Finnish translation I read it in (couldn't find it in English) wasn't as good as the translations of the Anne or Emily books I'm used to reading. I'd like to give this another read in English some time. I definititely loved it well enough to buy it some time, so I'm sure it will happen.
Besides Marigold, I love the characters of her family, they're wonderfully drawn and feel true, and often quite hilarious. The writing is beautiful like in LMM's work in general, though I think the Finnish translation I read it in (couldn't find it in English) wasn't as good as the translations of the Anne or Emily books I'm used to reading. I'd like to give this another read in English some time. I definititely loved it well enough to buy it some time, so I'm sure it will happen.
September 19, 2016
Not my most favourite Montgomery book
March 26, 2020
There is a magic to all of L.M. Montgomery’s books. They usually feature young girls with great imaginations, a love of nature and animals and something that causes trouble in their lives. In Marigold’s case, it is because her father died before she was born and she and her mother live with Old Grandmother, Young Grandmother and a great many aunt, uncles and cousins visit their home, Cloud of Spruce, on Prince Edward Island. (I love that name!)
Why are these books so popular after 100 years? For starters, they aren’t dummied down for children. The language and vocabulary are beautiful and I have to stop sometimes to look up a word I’ve never encountered. Lucy Maud Montgomery is able to accurately describe what it feels like to be a child where anything may happen. There might actually be monsters in the woods or fairies in a meadow. She is also a master at describing family relationships. I loved the family debate over Marigold’s name and how fortunate she was to have someone who loved her as much as Old Grandmother.
Treat yourself to a little bit of magic with Magic for Marigold or any one of L.M. Montgomery’s novels.
Why are these books so popular after 100 years? For starters, they aren’t dummied down for children. The language and vocabulary are beautiful and I have to stop sometimes to look up a word I’ve never encountered. Lucy Maud Montgomery is able to accurately describe what it feels like to be a child where anything may happen. There might actually be monsters in the woods or fairies in a meadow. She is also a master at describing family relationships. I loved the family debate over Marigold’s name and how fortunate she was to have someone who loved her as much as Old Grandmother.
Treat yourself to a little bit of magic with Magic for Marigold or any one of L.M. Montgomery’s novels.
January 19, 2020
A stand-alone novel from the author of such beloved children's classics as
Anne of Green Gables
and
Emily of New Moon
, Magic for Marigold follows the eponymous Marigold Lesley from infancy through young adolescence. Named after the "woman-doctor" who saved her life as an infant (and who subsequently becomes a most-beloved aunt), Marigold grows up the darling of her clan - a little golden-haired girl with one foot in the workaday world, and one in fairyland.
The old Lesley homestead at Cloud of Spruce - where Marigold's upbringing is overseen by imperious Old Grandmother, stately Young Grandmother, and her own sweet, widowed mother - is the enchanted but homey backdrop to many an adventure, from the visit of mischievous Princess Varvara, to the coming of "saintly" Cousin Gwennie. But Marigold's chief playmate throughout is the elfin (and imaginary) Sylvia, and it is the world of make-believe which dominates her rather solitary childhood.
More episodic than many of her other novels, Magic for Marigold is not quite the equal of Montgomery's Anne or Emily stories, and I have never been able to take its heroine entirely to heart. Though she has all the imaginative sensitivity one would expect, Marigold is somehow a less compelling character. I'm not entirely sure if this is owing to the fact that her story cuts off at a younger age, or simply that hers is a less forceful personality. Howsoever that may be, this is still an enjoyable read, particularly for readers who relish Montgomery's beautiful depiction of growing up on Prince Edward Island.
The old Lesley homestead at Cloud of Spruce - where Marigold's upbringing is overseen by imperious Old Grandmother, stately Young Grandmother, and her own sweet, widowed mother - is the enchanted but homey backdrop to many an adventure, from the visit of mischievous Princess Varvara, to the coming of "saintly" Cousin Gwennie. But Marigold's chief playmate throughout is the elfin (and imaginary) Sylvia, and it is the world of make-believe which dominates her rather solitary childhood.
More episodic than many of her other novels, Magic for Marigold is not quite the equal of Montgomery's Anne or Emily stories, and I have never been able to take its heroine entirely to heart. Though she has all the imaginative sensitivity one would expect, Marigold is somehow a less compelling character. I'm not entirely sure if this is owing to the fact that her story cuts off at a younger age, or simply that hers is a less forceful personality. Howsoever that may be, this is still an enjoyable read, particularly for readers who relish Montgomery's beautiful depiction of growing up on Prince Edward Island.
August 14, 2016
This book is so incredibly magical and charming.
I never read "Magic for Marigold" as a child (gasp! I know!) so when my friend Courtney agreed to read it with me over these last few weeks, I was delighted! You see, as a child, Courtney traveled all the way to PEI and when her parents asked her to pick out some LMM books to purchase... out of all the books she had to chose from, little Courtney chose "Magic for Marigold" which I find hilarious. However, after reflecting upon this, I realized that I had actually never read the book myself which Courtney found quite funny so we decided to continue our LMM reading club :-)
As Courtney and I discussed, this book seems to be more of an adult book looking back on the joys and magic and nostalgia of childhood. It's a lovely book and I adore it but I can see that I probably would not have enjoyed it as much as a child.
I would love to go visiting at Cloud of Spruce where Marigold's clan of visitors are always welcomed with a pantry full of homemade cakes, cookies and biscuits.
Lucy Maud Montgomery is such a kindred spirit to me. I felt it when I read her as a child, teen, early adult and I feel it even more now in my thirties.
Knowing more about her life and times as I do know, I can see where characters mimic certain people in her own life-- most notably characters with religious scrupulosity or religious melancholy like her husband. In this book, I see it in Paula, Paula's father and Uncle Jarvis.
Some of my favorite passages:
*The entire chapter with young Marigold and Old Grandmother in the orchard.
"Marigold thought the world a charming place at all times but especially in September, when the hills were blue and the great wheat-fields along the harbour-shore warm gold and the glens of autumn full of shimmering leaves. Marigold always felt that there was something in the fall that belonged to her and her alone if she could only find it, and this secret quest made of September and October months of magic."
"Aunt Marigold, who had never had any children of her own, knew more mothercraft than many women who had. She had not only the seeing eye but the understanding heart as well. In a short time she had the whole story. If she smiled over it Marigold did not see it."
I never read "Magic for Marigold" as a child (gasp! I know!) so when my friend Courtney agreed to read it with me over these last few weeks, I was delighted! You see, as a child, Courtney traveled all the way to PEI and when her parents asked her to pick out some LMM books to purchase... out of all the books she had to chose from, little Courtney chose "Magic for Marigold" which I find hilarious. However, after reflecting upon this, I realized that I had actually never read the book myself which Courtney found quite funny so we decided to continue our LMM reading club :-)
As Courtney and I discussed, this book seems to be more of an adult book looking back on the joys and magic and nostalgia of childhood. It's a lovely book and I adore it but I can see that I probably would not have enjoyed it as much as a child.
I would love to go visiting at Cloud of Spruce where Marigold's clan of visitors are always welcomed with a pantry full of homemade cakes, cookies and biscuits.
Lucy Maud Montgomery is such a kindred spirit to me. I felt it when I read her as a child, teen, early adult and I feel it even more now in my thirties.
Knowing more about her life and times as I do know, I can see where characters mimic certain people in her own life-- most notably characters with religious scrupulosity or religious melancholy like her husband. In this book, I see it in Paula, Paula's father and Uncle Jarvis.
Some of my favorite passages:
*The entire chapter with young Marigold and Old Grandmother in the orchard.
"Marigold thought the world a charming place at all times but especially in September, when the hills were blue and the great wheat-fields along the harbour-shore warm gold and the glens of autumn full of shimmering leaves. Marigold always felt that there was something in the fall that belonged to her and her alone if she could only find it, and this secret quest made of September and October months of magic."
"Aunt Marigold, who had never had any children of her own, knew more mothercraft than many women who had. She had not only the seeing eye but the understanding heart as well. In a short time she had the whole story. If she smiled over it Marigold did not see it."
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March 24, 2023Pēc Annas un Emīlijas gaidīju kaut ko tikpat aizraujošu.
Merigoldai nebūtu ne vainas, ja vien nebūtu ar ko salīdzināt. Vienkārši par cilvēkiem un ikdienu pirms simts gadiem.
Merigoldai nebūtu ne vainas, ja vien nebūtu ar ko salīdzināt. Vienkārši par cilvēkiem un ikdienu pirms simts gadiem.
September 10, 2008
I have been an L.M. Montgomery fan since she was the topic of my first-ever research paper in third grade. As a young girl I worshipped at the altars of Anne Shirley and Emily Byrd Star, so when I saw Magic for Marigold on the shelves of a used book shop, I had to pick it up. I have to admit, I was not carried away by this novel in quite the way I was by Montgomery's other works. Some of that might be age and disillusionment, but I think mostly it is the fault of our limited interaction with Marigold on a daily basis. While the reader is able to follow Anne and Emily through all the mundane moments of their lives, we see Marigold only in little snatches of time across her twelve years. There is a lack of connection between the chapters, and while we see the results of Marigold's development, we never really see it happen. Marigold's magic is likewise underdeveloped: her Green Gate is no Lake of Shining Waters, and her imaginary friend Sylvia has none of the depth of meaning or of character that we saw in Emily-in-the-Glass.
Overall, this book is charming and a worthy entry into the annals of young adult fiction, but perhaps not the best representation of Montgomery's delightful heroines.
Overall, this book is charming and a worthy entry into the annals of young adult fiction, but perhaps not the best representation of Montgomery's delightful heroines.
May 19, 2015
I agree with most of the other reviews that this book certainly isn't Montgomery's best but it showcases what she does best which is descriptions of nature, and identifying the tiny everyday moments that matter so much to small children and we often as adults forget the significance of. It's not so much a narrative as a peek through the window into different moments in Marigold's life.
It is a place and time that is foreign to us and just that makes it enjoyable.
In a way I actually enjoyed not engaging too much with the main character. After spending a few weeks obsessed with Anne, Jane and Valancy and relating to every pain of theirs, it was fun to just enjoy the beautiful PEI haze without the complication of taking it too personally.
It is a place and time that is foreign to us and just that makes it enjoyable.
In a way I actually enjoyed not engaging too much with the main character. After spending a few weeks obsessed with Anne, Jane and Valancy and relating to every pain of theirs, it was fun to just enjoy the beautiful PEI haze without the complication of taking it too personally.
March 12, 2021
l'ho cercato come una matta nell'edizione trovata in casa allora (Vallardi, 1953), l'ho ritrovato su e-bay frusto vecchio e rovinato come il mio, chissà, magari è il mio (che fine fece, peraltro?)!
Mi nascondevo dietro l'armadio per leggere in pace senza che mi trovassero per farmi fare una delle 100 incombenze che mi venivano assegnate appena "non stavo facendo niente di utile". Mi fece innamorare della lettura e da allora ogni primavera i cespugli di Spirea fioriti di bianco mi han fatto tornare in mente Silvia e la voglia di ritrovare il MIO Marigold
Mi nascondevo dietro l'armadio per leggere in pace senza che mi trovassero per farmi fare una delle 100 incombenze che mi venivano assegnate appena "non stavo facendo niente di utile". Mi fece innamorare della lettura e da allora ogni primavera i cespugli di Spirea fioriti di bianco mi han fatto tornare in mente Silvia e la voglia di ritrovare il MIO Marigold
October 19, 2016
I love Montgomery's heroines who are ordinary females who get angry, are jealous , make a mess of things and then get up from where they have fallen , flick off the mud and move forward with their heads up , They are always creatures who live in a dreamland and as I think most of us readers are so it is easy enough to identify with them. I loved Marigiold and her friends and enemies. Typical Montgomery.
July 18, 2022
For me this was 4.5 stars.
I love love Montgomery's writing. And this rating is absolutely based on the descriptions in this book🤩😍.
I love love Montgomery's writing. And this rating is absolutely based on the descriptions in this book🤩😍.
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