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Anne Picture Book
If I Couldn't Be Anne
A beautiful read-aloud picture book about the power of the imagination, inspired by the best-selling Anne of Green Gables.
In this whimsical and magical picture book, Anne's boundless imagination takes flight! She imagines being all the things she loves so dearly. If I Couldn't Be Anne, Anne with an e, what would I be . . . Anne wonders what it would be like to be the wind dancing round the treetops. A tightrope walker, breathless and brave. A princess in a palace made of apple blossoms. A magical frost fairy or a plain little wood elf. . . . But even as Anne's imagination soars far and wide, she comes back down to earth, recognizing that some things - like friendship! - are even better than the imagination.
With adorable illustrations, and a heartfelt message, this picture book is a perfect read-aloud introduction to L.M. Montgomery's beloved Anne and will delight her brand-new fans and lifelong readers alike.
In this whimsical and magical picture book, Anne's boundless imagination takes flight! She imagines being all the things she loves so dearly. If I Couldn't Be Anne, Anne with an e, what would I be . . . Anne wonders what it would be like to be the wind dancing round the treetops. A tightrope walker, breathless and brave. A princess in a palace made of apple blossoms. A magical frost fairy or a plain little wood elf. . . . But even as Anne's imagination soars far and wide, she comes back down to earth, recognizing that some things - like friendship! - are even better than the imagination.
With adorable illustrations, and a heartfelt message, this picture book is a perfect read-aloud introduction to L.M. Montgomery's beloved Anne and will delight her brand-new fans and lifelong readers alike.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published May 12, 2020
460 people want to read
About the author
Kallie George
93 books382 followersI’m an author, editor, and speaker living in Vancouver, BC, near the sea. When I’m not writing or editing, I’m teaching creative writing workshops.
I have my Masters of Children's Literature from the University of British Columbia.
I love picture books, fairy tales, beautiful art and music, and baking cookies.
I have my Masters of Children's Literature from the University of British Columbia.
I love picture books, fairy tales, beautiful art and music, and baking cookies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
January 20, 2026
"If I couldn't be Anne with an E...I'd be a tightrope walker, breathless and brave. Or a lily maid, drifting dreamily through the summer."In this story, we follow Anne of Green Gables as she day-dreams about her life. She thinks about what she could be or do differently, as long as there's a bit of magic in the air.
I really liked how the author pulled from the original book - various whimsies and thoughts that Anne had in the main series - were reshaped and added to this picture book. It was a fun way to connect to the source material.
"Or a rose so I could find out all the lovely things the flowers say."
And (slight spoilers ahead), I really liked Anne's conclusion to the book.
"If I couldn't be Anne with an E...I'd be an echo, faraway but friendly. Or an invisible friend who lives in a book, a kindred spirit to anyone in need."
I thought the illustrations were sweet, and a bit dreamy.
"But if I must be Anne, I want to be Anne with an e. And I want to live here - at Green Gables."
The color palette and figures were soft and gentle, which makes for a lovely bedtime story. A bit of whimsy and imagination, but in a calming and sweet way.
This is a wonderful book for a young fan of Anne of Green Gables.
March 18, 2020
In this sweet book illustrated by Geneviève Godbout (she's so good!), we follow Anne, daydreaming about who she could be if she wasn't Anne with an e. Kallie George takes events from the original books to tell this story and I found myself smiling at the nice references. Children won't understand at the same level, but it's still poetic and the illustrations are so beautiful. Also, it's a good way for your kids to meet Anne for the first time and when they'll grow older they'll discover the novels!
I prefered this one to Goodnight, Anne, so if you likee the latter, you'll enjoy this one as well!
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada and Netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange of an honest review.
Publication date: May 12th, 2020.
I prefered this one to Goodnight, Anne, so if you likee the latter, you'll enjoy this one as well!
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada and Netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange of an honest review.
Publication date: May 12th, 2020.
June 18, 2020
If I Couldn't Be Anne by Kallie George is ridiculously sweet, colourful and lovely!
This whimsical tale follows a sweet girl who wants to be Anne with an E. I grew up knowing about this story and watching the different adaptions for school. It's a very popular story, especially in Canada, so this book gave me all sorts of nostalgia back to my childhood. All the girls wanted to be Anne with an E because of the tales told in our classes.
The illustrations are gorgeous, soft and colourful. They make this story feel super sweet and magical! It takes you inside the story very well.
On a side note: I WANT THE DRESS SHE WEARS ON THE TIGHTROPE OMG ITS SO PRETTY.
Overall, this is a super cute book! I highly recommend it to those who want a whimsical picture book, love Anne with an E, or just want something fun!
Five out of five stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, Tundra Books and Penguin Random House Canada for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
This whimsical tale follows a sweet girl who wants to be Anne with an E. I grew up knowing about this story and watching the different adaptions for school. It's a very popular story, especially in Canada, so this book gave me all sorts of nostalgia back to my childhood. All the girls wanted to be Anne with an E because of the tales told in our classes.
The illustrations are gorgeous, soft and colourful. They make this story feel super sweet and magical! It takes you inside the story very well.
On a side note: I WANT THE DRESS SHE WEARS ON THE TIGHTROPE OMG ITS SO PRETTY.
Overall, this is a super cute book! I highly recommend it to those who want a whimsical picture book, love Anne with an E, or just want something fun!
Five out of five stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, Tundra Books and Penguin Random House Canada for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
March 13, 2020
From the team that brought us
Goodnight, Anne
comes this sweet little book that perfectly captures the spirit of Anne Shirley with evocative text and dreamy pictures.
Anne muses on what she would be if she weren't herself. For those familiar with the character, it's easy to see how her ideas are in perfect sync with Montgomery's original themes. Even Anne's dislike of her red hair is mentioned (although it's emphasized that red is far better than green, a nod to an incident in Anne of Green Gables).
The illustrations by Geneviève Godbout are soft and magical, yet somehow still manage to capture Anne's somewhat (often unintentionally) mischievous spirit. They're in the same style as those in Goodnight, Anne, and they're simply lovely.
I would definitely recommend this to fans of Anne, as well as to those looking for books about imagination and self-esteem.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tundra Books (NY) for providing a digital ARC.
Anne muses on what she would be if she weren't herself. For those familiar with the character, it's easy to see how her ideas are in perfect sync with Montgomery's original themes. Even Anne's dislike of her red hair is mentioned (although it's emphasized that red is far better than green, a nod to an incident in Anne of Green Gables).
The illustrations by Geneviève Godbout are soft and magical, yet somehow still manage to capture Anne's somewhat (often unintentionally) mischievous spirit. They're in the same style as those in Goodnight, Anne, and they're simply lovely.
I would definitely recommend this to fans of Anne, as well as to those looking for books about imagination and self-esteem.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tundra Books (NY) for providing a digital ARC.
December 11, 2023
Inspired by L.M. Montgomery's classic 1908 novel Anne of Green Gables (and yes, like with Kallie George's other AOGG picture books, I am once again left a bit annoyed and frustrated that Montgomery is not prominently displayed on the book cover alongside of author and illustrator), George's printed words for her 2020 If I Couldn't Be Anne is in my humble opinion not really meant for introducing young readers/listeners to Anne Shirley, to Avonlea etc. since pretty much ALL of the contents of If I Couldn't Be Anne (such as for example Anne recalling her green hair fiasco) rely on rather specific foreknowledge of Anne of Green Gables (and which is in my humble opinion pretty well improbable for a traditional picture book audience and thus makes If I Couldn't Be Anne more something for nostalgic adults).
But although I am indeed one of those nostalgic adults (and did as such and of course kind of enjoy locating and finding Anne of Green Gables scenarios and anecdotes in If I Couldn't Be Anne), sorry, but Kallie George's textual attempts at channeling Anne Shirley's imagination into a kind of stream of conscience Anne with an "e" celebration really mostly ends up presenting an overly saccharine and annoying repetitiveness that even in a picture book very quickly becomes rather tedious (and as such not at all to my own and personal textual tastes and equally not really being an homage to Anne of Green Gables either but instead rather dragging down both Anne Shirley and also L.M. Montgomery, and in particular since Montgomery manages to show Anne and her imagination so brilliantly, so humorously and so believably in Anne of Green Gables). And albeit Geneviève Godbout’s pastel-and–coloured-pencil accompanying artwork for If I Couldn't Be Anne is visually pleasant, nicely expressive (and with Anne Shirley also being immediately recognisable), Godbout's illustrations are also overly and one-sidedly cloyingly syrup like, which of course does successfully mirror Kallie George's text for If I Couldn't be Anne but also leaves the combination of text and images as so drowning in on the surface and unnuanced broken-record like sweetness that I for one (and even though I seem to be the minority here) can and will only consider a very low and also as such rather generous three star rating for If I Couldn't Be Anne.
But although I am indeed one of those nostalgic adults (and did as such and of course kind of enjoy locating and finding Anne of Green Gables scenarios and anecdotes in If I Couldn't Be Anne), sorry, but Kallie George's textual attempts at channeling Anne Shirley's imagination into a kind of stream of conscience Anne with an "e" celebration really mostly ends up presenting an overly saccharine and annoying repetitiveness that even in a picture book very quickly becomes rather tedious (and as such not at all to my own and personal textual tastes and equally not really being an homage to Anne of Green Gables either but instead rather dragging down both Anne Shirley and also L.M. Montgomery, and in particular since Montgomery manages to show Anne and her imagination so brilliantly, so humorously and so believably in Anne of Green Gables). And albeit Geneviève Godbout’s pastel-and–coloured-pencil accompanying artwork for If I Couldn't Be Anne is visually pleasant, nicely expressive (and with Anne Shirley also being immediately recognisable), Godbout's illustrations are also overly and one-sidedly cloyingly syrup like, which of course does successfully mirror Kallie George's text for If I Couldn't be Anne but also leaves the combination of text and images as so drowning in on the surface and unnuanced broken-record like sweetness that I for one (and even though I seem to be the minority here) can and will only consider a very low and also as such rather generous three star rating for If I Couldn't Be Anne.
April 17, 2020
A beautiful illustrated book of Anne of Green Gables as she uses her imagination to be something else. If I couldn't be Anne with e, I would rather be.... It is a beautiful way to look at the world and see it from another perspective. If you are fan of the Green Gables, you will love this edition.
A Special Thank you to Tundra Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A Special Thank you to Tundra Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
March 5, 2020
As a long-time Anne lover, I knew I'd have to read this children's homage to one of the most beloved literary characters ever!
The book took elements from Anne of Green Gables and wove them into a beautiful poem that delighted this Anne fan. There have been many different Anne interpretations and some of them haven't been my cup-of-tea because I don't feel they hold true to who Anne really was.
But, this book was written how I imagine Anne would've spoken if L.M. Montgomery gave Anne license to write poetry for children in her books!
Not only was the story wonderful; but the illustrations were whimsical and sweet. I love how well the author and illustrator captured the spirit of Anne Shirley.
The book took elements from Anne of Green Gables and wove them into a beautiful poem that delighted this Anne fan. There have been many different Anne interpretations and some of them haven't been my cup-of-tea because I don't feel they hold true to who Anne really was.
But, this book was written how I imagine Anne would've spoken if L.M. Montgomery gave Anne license to write poetry for children in her books!
Not only was the story wonderful; but the illustrations were whimsical and sweet. I love how well the author and illustrator captured the spirit of Anne Shirley.
August 14, 2020
Since Anne of Green Gables came out of copyright and into the public domain there has been a multitude of children's books and 'inspired by' texts to peruse. I have yet to find one that I feel embodies or moves the Anne of Green Gables legacy forward in a meaningful manner.
As a born and raised Canadian, whose got family members buried not 15km away from Anne's house on Prince Edward Island (although I live in the West), I have a bit of a protective 'mama bear' attitude towards L.M. Montgomery and Anne. I totally understand that like so many classic children's/middle grade books many of us have fond memories of Anne and her travels. But we weren't five years old when those memories began; and yet they keep publishing board/children's books about Anne even though it's much too young for full exposure.
Let's face it, the nostalgia factor for the parent means nothing to a small child. This story abut Anne could be about any girl of any name and it would still be: boring, insignificant, and underwhelming. At the age group this is targeted at we are much better off having books about animals, social responsibility, morals, etc. We are deluding ourselves if we think any children under 7 think some random redheaded girl is important (unless her name is Merida).
I think we should preserve Anne for the middle-grade group of children. Allow them to peruse the novel(s) the same as we did at the age. I do not believe there is a need for an introduction to Anne earlier than that. This book is just fluff.
While the illustrations are gorgeous, and the verse kind of cute, this just doesn't do it for me. Funny enough my middle name is Ann (without an E) and I remember telling my Mom how disappointed I was in her choice of spelling (I'm told my relatives didn't have an E on their name). It's funny now, but I can't even imagine if I had been obsessed with Anne at an earlier age than 8 as I might not have understood that how you spell a name is irrelevant at the end of the day. So I recommend you don't give any girls named Ann (without an E) a complex and find something a little more educational for your little ones for story time. Provide Anne at the right age so they can love her like we all do.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
As a born and raised Canadian, whose got family members buried not 15km away from Anne's house on Prince Edward Island (although I live in the West), I have a bit of a protective 'mama bear' attitude towards L.M. Montgomery and Anne. I totally understand that like so many classic children's/middle grade books many of us have fond memories of Anne and her travels. But we weren't five years old when those memories began; and yet they keep publishing board/children's books about Anne even though it's much too young for full exposure.
Let's face it, the nostalgia factor for the parent means nothing to a small child. This story abut Anne could be about any girl of any name and it would still be: boring, insignificant, and underwhelming. At the age group this is targeted at we are much better off having books about animals, social responsibility, morals, etc. We are deluding ourselves if we think any children under 7 think some random redheaded girl is important (unless her name is Merida).
I think we should preserve Anne for the middle-grade group of children. Allow them to peruse the novel(s) the same as we did at the age. I do not believe there is a need for an introduction to Anne earlier than that. This book is just fluff.
While the illustrations are gorgeous, and the verse kind of cute, this just doesn't do it for me. Funny enough my middle name is Ann (without an E) and I remember telling my Mom how disappointed I was in her choice of spelling (I'm told my relatives didn't have an E on their name). It's funny now, but I can't even imagine if I had been obsessed with Anne at an earlier age than 8 as I might not have understood that how you spell a name is irrelevant at the end of the day. So I recommend you don't give any girls named Ann (without an E) a complex and find something a little more educational for your little ones for story time. Provide Anne at the right age so they can love her like we all do.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
March 9, 2020
This is a beautifully illustrated picture book where Anne from Anne of Green Gables tells of what she would do in life if she weren't herself. Much of it is fantasy (a gull, the wind dancing on treetops, a lily maid, a tightrope walker...). The illustrations are whimsical and lovely. The text is sparse, making it a great bedtime book for those parents who must read a stack at bedtime (surely that's not just me?) and want enjoyable but brief ones in the pile some nights. :) This book will make a wonderful companion to the novel, but also stands on its own as a sweet little picture book.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
June 30, 2021
This is a beautiful book which I think would be enjoyed by both kids and adults, Anne fans and those unfamiliar with the story. I think that it can stand on its own (though of course, people who already like Anne will appreciate it most).
The writing doesn't rhyme, which isn't a problem, but it sometimes had a rhythm like it was trying to rhyme and failing. Once I got used to this, it didn't bother me.
The writing doesn't rhyme, which isn't a problem, but it sometimes had a rhythm like it was trying to rhyme and failing. Once I got used to this, it didn't bother me.
March 22, 2020
If you loved Anne of Green Gables and you want your child to love her as well, this is the place to start. This whimsical children's book introduces us to Anne, Anne with an E.
The story is as delightful as the original. The pictures are gorgeous. I am not sure who with love this book more the child or the parent.
This would also make a perfect baby shower or birthday gift!
The publisher made this book available via Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my honest review.
The story is as delightful as the original. The pictures are gorgeous. I am not sure who with love this book more the child or the parent.
This would also make a perfect baby shower or birthday gift!
The publisher made this book available via Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my honest review.
July 19, 2020
A beautiful introduction to one of my personal favorite literary characters. The story follows a young Anne as she imagines who she could be if she wasn't Anne with an E. It alludes to the original story (which will likely not have as much impact on the audience, but will definitely resonate with adult readers), but can easily stand alone as a tribute to the wonder of your imagination. Highly recommend!!
April 6, 2020
Thank you Netgally and the author and publisher for the gifted copy of If I couldn't be Anne.
I thought the illustrations were gorgeous. This little book is a great nod to Anne Shirley. It has very little text per page so it's a quick easy read.
What I didn't enjoy was the repetitive use of a certain sentence. I found that a little irritating.
4 stars.
I thought the illustrations were gorgeous. This little book is a great nod to Anne Shirley. It has very little text per page so it's a quick easy read.
What I didn't enjoy was the repetitive use of a certain sentence. I found that a little irritating.
4 stars.
May 18, 2020
You thought I couldn't possibly read more Anne of Green Gables, but you were wrong. This one is a lovely picture book that just came out last week. It has all the whimsy of the original in its references and illustrations. I know there are Anne board books and there are Anne early reader chapter books, but I haven't come across any Anne picture books before!
February 21, 2024
This is a picture book, and I was not as fond of it, as I have been of some of her other books about Anne of Green Gables
October 22, 2024
Beautiful, recreates many of the beautiful moments from Anne of Green Gables when Anne is dwelling on nature and imagination. Made me smile
July 12, 2020
I think I liked this book more than either of my grandchildren. It uses ideas from the Anne of Green Gables books to showcase all the things that Anne loves about Green Gables and the community. It was a whimsical story with absolutely gorgeous illustrations. It is a good introduction to the Anne stories. Having said all that, neither of my grandchildren were impressed with the book and it was one that they did not ask for again, in fact, they didn't even want me to finish it. Perhaps they are too young for it. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
April 21, 2020
#Partner #arc
“From a fearless tightrope walker to a princess in a palace made of apple blossoms—when Anne lets her imagination run wild, she can become anything she wants to be! But even as her flights of fancy soar far and wide, Anne knows that some things—like friendship, family and her beloved Green Gables—are even better than what she can imagine. Inspired by L.M. Montgomery’s classic novel, this charming picture book invites readers both young and old to daydream with Anne through realms of endless possibility.”
If you couldn’t be you, who—or what—would you be? I would be paint, ready to bring forth a friendly painter’s vision, or possibly the chatter in the tree leaves <3
This is a charming picture book INDEED! Kallie George is a Kindred Spirit who takes us into the familiar mind of our favorite dreaming redhead. Anne’s imagination is one of her distinguishing features, and where LM Montgomery left off, Kallie picks up and pens a darling, true-to-character train of thought from the world’s most unfettered dreamer.
We are transported into Anne’s sparkling stream of consciousness by the rich illustrations of Geneviève Godbout. Luscious layers of color not only illustrate beautiful scenes of Anne playing in her daydreams, but evoke the sumptuous, mundane magic of Green Gables. The illustrations made my art curator heart soar!
Some of my favorite aspects of Tundra’s Inspired by Anne collection are the original artwork which accompanies the story and the careful attention to reproducing it in print! This truly makes these books collectors items as well as necessities for little reader’s libraries.
You can add this book to your collection on May 12, 2020!
My sincere thanks to Tundra for sending me this free ARC for review– I am delighted to add this to my Anne collection!
“From a fearless tightrope walker to a princess in a palace made of apple blossoms—when Anne lets her imagination run wild, she can become anything she wants to be! But even as her flights of fancy soar far and wide, Anne knows that some things—like friendship, family and her beloved Green Gables—are even better than what she can imagine. Inspired by L.M. Montgomery’s classic novel, this charming picture book invites readers both young and old to daydream with Anne through realms of endless possibility.”
If you couldn’t be you, who—or what—would you be? I would be paint, ready to bring forth a friendly painter’s vision, or possibly the chatter in the tree leaves <3
This is a charming picture book INDEED! Kallie George is a Kindred Spirit who takes us into the familiar mind of our favorite dreaming redhead. Anne’s imagination is one of her distinguishing features, and where LM Montgomery left off, Kallie picks up and pens a darling, true-to-character train of thought from the world’s most unfettered dreamer.
We are transported into Anne’s sparkling stream of consciousness by the rich illustrations of Geneviève Godbout. Luscious layers of color not only illustrate beautiful scenes of Anne playing in her daydreams, but evoke the sumptuous, mundane magic of Green Gables. The illustrations made my art curator heart soar!
Some of my favorite aspects of Tundra’s Inspired by Anne collection are the original artwork which accompanies the story and the careful attention to reproducing it in print! This truly makes these books collectors items as well as necessities for little reader’s libraries.
You can add this book to your collection on May 12, 2020!
My sincere thanks to Tundra for sending me this free ARC for review– I am delighted to add this to my Anne collection!
March 11, 2020
The team of Kallie George and Genevieve Godbout bringing us picture books inspired by Anne of Green Gables is everything I have ever wanted in kidlit.
In their new collaboration If I Couldn’t Be Anne we get the most lyrical and descriptive language to share with young readers. We also get the most brilliant and beautiful two page spreads, with Anne featuring prominently. We truly love these books to inspire the next generation of Anne fans and provide young readers with incredible descriptive language. I think there are times when we shy away from books with a lot of words or “big” words in them, assuming that our youngest readers won’t understand or won’t be able to sit still until the end of the story. Any book, as long as the subject matter is age appropriate, is a great book to share with a child. The more we read aloud to our children and expose them to language, the more likely they are to become readers themselves, hopefully life long readers. Thanks to Kallie George and Genevieve Godbout our young readers will be inspired by Anne of Green Gables and parents can share a book that has a special place in our hearts with our children right from day one.
Every spread in this book is worthy of a place on your wall. If I could paper The Bee’s room in spreads from both Goodnight Anne and If I Couldn’t Be Ane I would. Since The Bee has red hair like Anne, she can see herself in Genevieve Godbout’s illustrations and can be inspired by all of the kindred spirits in Anne’s stories
In their new collaboration If I Couldn’t Be Anne we get the most lyrical and descriptive language to share with young readers. We also get the most brilliant and beautiful two page spreads, with Anne featuring prominently. We truly love these books to inspire the next generation of Anne fans and provide young readers with incredible descriptive language. I think there are times when we shy away from books with a lot of words or “big” words in them, assuming that our youngest readers won’t understand or won’t be able to sit still until the end of the story. Any book, as long as the subject matter is age appropriate, is a great book to share with a child. The more we read aloud to our children and expose them to language, the more likely they are to become readers themselves, hopefully life long readers. Thanks to Kallie George and Genevieve Godbout our young readers will be inspired by Anne of Green Gables and parents can share a book that has a special place in our hearts with our children right from day one.
Every spread in this book is worthy of a place on your wall. If I could paper The Bee’s room in spreads from both Goodnight Anne and If I Couldn’t Be Ane I would. Since The Bee has red hair like Anne, she can see herself in Genevieve Godbout’s illustrations and can be inspired by all of the kindred spirits in Anne’s stories
May 9, 2020
If I Couldn’t Be Anne by Kallie George
Publication Date: May 12, 2020 - in 3 days!
Description from NetGalley...
“A beautiful read-aloud picture book about the power of the imagination, inspired by the best-selling Anne of Green Gables.
In this whimsical and magical picture book, Anne's boundless imagination takes flight! She imagines being all the things she loves so dearly. If I Couldn't Be Anne, Anne with an e, what would I be . . . Anne wonders what it would be like to be the wind dancing round the treetops. A tightrope walker, breathless and brave. A princess in a palace made of apple blossoms. A magical frost fairy or a plain little wood elf. . . . But even as Anne's imagination soars far and wide, she comes back down to earth, recognizing that some things - like friendship! - are even better than the imagination.”
Thank you to @NetGalley, @penguinrandomhousecanada @tundrabooks for the digital ARC in return for my honest review.
My thoughts...
If you’re a fan of Anne of Green Gables, you might want of copy of this book. It’s not a story per se, but more a rhythmic prose that is an ode to Anne. Throughout the book, there are references to what we’ve come to know about Anne and the world around her. It’s quite nostalgic. And if you’re an adult who loves Anne of Green Gables, you might find this book, with whimsical and warm illustrations, a great introduction for children.
Publication Date: May 12, 2020 - in 3 days!
Description from NetGalley...
“A beautiful read-aloud picture book about the power of the imagination, inspired by the best-selling Anne of Green Gables.
In this whimsical and magical picture book, Anne's boundless imagination takes flight! She imagines being all the things she loves so dearly. If I Couldn't Be Anne, Anne with an e, what would I be . . . Anne wonders what it would be like to be the wind dancing round the treetops. A tightrope walker, breathless and brave. A princess in a palace made of apple blossoms. A magical frost fairy or a plain little wood elf. . . . But even as Anne's imagination soars far and wide, she comes back down to earth, recognizing that some things - like friendship! - are even better than the imagination.”
Thank you to @NetGalley, @penguinrandomhousecanada @tundrabooks for the digital ARC in return for my honest review.
My thoughts...
If you’re a fan of Anne of Green Gables, you might want of copy of this book. It’s not a story per se, but more a rhythmic prose that is an ode to Anne. Throughout the book, there are references to what we’ve come to know about Anne and the world around her. It’s quite nostalgic. And if you’re an adult who loves Anne of Green Gables, you might find this book, with whimsical and warm illustrations, a great introduction for children.
May 11, 2020
This beautifully illustrated picture book is written from Anne's perspective as she tells the reader what she would be if she could not be herself. She imagines herself as different animals and fantasy creatures, pictures herself in different life situations, and concludes with all the things that are wonderful about her life. As a long-term fan of the Anne series, I enjoyed this picture book's many nods to Anne's character and different elements from the book.
Previously, I found this author's early chapter book adaptations of Anne of Green Gables inadequate and disappointing, because like most adaptations, they rip the story down to the bare bones and remove much of its charm. However, because this is a supplementary picture book, not an adaptation, it is fully enjoyable for both book fans and people who are only just learning about Anne. Fans will have fun sharing this book with their children, since it is simple, sweet, and charming without spoiling story elements of the series or retelling it poorly.
The illustrations are simple but absolutely radiant, and the text is rhythmic and sweet. This is a delightful picture book, even aside from its associations with L.M. Montgomery's work, and it works as both a general read-aloud and a bedtime story. This will appeal in school and library settings as well as to families, and is a fun introduction to Anne.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Previously, I found this author's early chapter book adaptations of Anne of Green Gables inadequate and disappointing, because like most adaptations, they rip the story down to the bare bones and remove much of its charm. However, because this is a supplementary picture book, not an adaptation, it is fully enjoyable for both book fans and people who are only just learning about Anne. Fans will have fun sharing this book with their children, since it is simple, sweet, and charming without spoiling story elements of the series or retelling it poorly.
The illustrations are simple but absolutely radiant, and the text is rhythmic and sweet. This is a delightful picture book, even aside from its associations with L.M. Montgomery's work, and it works as both a general read-aloud and a bedtime story. This will appeal in school and library settings as well as to families, and is a fun introduction to Anne.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2020
If I Couldn't Be Anne by Kallie George is a sweet whimsical introduction to Anne of the beloved Anne of Green Gables Series. It is in no way a retelling of the story but it is a young person’s first meeting with Anne, getting to know her through her thoughts and opinions. One of the things that a reader of the Lucy Maud Montgomery series would remember is Anne’s inquisitive and imaginative nature. That comes into full focus in this book.
I read this book with a five year old and a seven year old. They most definitely enjoyed the book but it was me who loved it. The references to events and people that I remembered reading long ago came back, such as Anne not liking her red hair so much but saying it was better than green. It was like meeting an old friend I haven’t seen in many years but of whom I had such fond memories. I loved the illustrations, the lyrical wording and of course, the characterization which was right on spot. It sounded just like the Anne I remember meeting in the beginning of the series. I hadn’t thought of that young Anne in many years, but it was wonderful to see her again. It was even more wonderful to introduce others to her through this sweet book.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
I read this book with a five year old and a seven year old. They most definitely enjoyed the book but it was me who loved it. The references to events and people that I remembered reading long ago came back, such as Anne not liking her red hair so much but saying it was better than green. It was like meeting an old friend I haven’t seen in many years but of whom I had such fond memories. I loved the illustrations, the lyrical wording and of course, the characterization which was right on spot. It sounded just like the Anne I remember meeting in the beginning of the series. I hadn’t thought of that young Anne in many years, but it was wonderful to see her again. It was even more wonderful to introduce others to her through this sweet book.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
July 16, 2021
If you are looking for a beautiful read-aloud picture book inspired by the beloved children’s novel Anne of Green Gables, then look no further than If I Couldn’t Be Anne by Canadian author Kallie George! In this magical story with fantastical illustrations, we are privileged to view Anne’s boundless imagination in full swing as she wonders about who and what she would be if she were not Anne. She daydreams about what life would be like if she were an invisible friend, a princess in a palace, a fearless tightrope walker or a frost fairy just to name a few! Page by page, we follow along with Anne’s thoughts as they are brought to life with stunning pastel and coloured pencil art by Genevieve Godbout that perfectly encompasses the spirit and curiosity of young Anne. Children are certain to be intrigued and inspired by the adorable illustrations and the whimsical way Anne describes her thoughts. The story even ends with a meaningful lesson that teaches children while having an imagination is very important, some tangible, interactive things like friendship are even better! Thus, this heartwarming picture book with such a heartfelt message is a wonderful introduction to the beloved Anne Shirley of Green Gables for your littles ones and is sure to create a brand new legion of fans!
June 10, 2020
I've enjoyed the renewed interest in Anne of Green Gables, from fresh biographies and a miniseries to new publications. There is something captivating about Anne's presence that continues to draw new readers.
If I Couldn't be Anne is a whimsical picture book from Anne's perspective as she dreams of the world around her and the ways she would engage with it if she were not Anne. Perhaps she'd be the wind, or the echoes, or the water.
The simple words are filled with lush illustrations, and well-versed readers will recognize scenes and references to books. On one page, Anne discusses kindred spirits, on another, she bemoans red hair (but confesses that's a better fate than green hair). On yet another, Anne is laid out in a boat with her eyes closed.
For parents who relish Anne of Green Gables but have young children not yet ready to be introduced to the series, this is a lovely placeholder.
(I was given a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)
If I Couldn't be Anne is a whimsical picture book from Anne's perspective as she dreams of the world around her and the ways she would engage with it if she were not Anne. Perhaps she'd be the wind, or the echoes, or the water.
The simple words are filled with lush illustrations, and well-versed readers will recognize scenes and references to books. On one page, Anne discusses kindred spirits, on another, she bemoans red hair (but confesses that's a better fate than green hair). On yet another, Anne is laid out in a boat with her eyes closed.
For parents who relish Anne of Green Gables but have young children not yet ready to be introduced to the series, this is a lovely placeholder.
(I was given a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)
May 22, 2020
If, like me, you are enthusiastic about all things Anne, you will love this new picture book from Tundra Books. I was blown away by the beautiful illustrations in this delightful Anne of Green Gables inspired children’s book.
Anne imagines all the various things she would be if she couldn’t be Anne, Anne with an e. The wind, a lily maid, a fancy lady drinking tea in a “grown-up-ish” way. Long-time fans of Anne will recognize these callbacks to the original story and love the book for that. Just know that this book isn't just a shortened up version of the original Anne, so it could be confusing for those little ones not familiar with the story.
Suggested age range is 3-7, and kids will enjoy this first taste of Anne of Green Gables. Of course, I think Anne enthusiasts of any age will love having this sweet book on their bookshelf.
Many thanks to Tundra Books and to NetGalley for the chance to review this book.
Anne imagines all the various things she would be if she couldn’t be Anne, Anne with an e. The wind, a lily maid, a fancy lady drinking tea in a “grown-up-ish” way. Long-time fans of Anne will recognize these callbacks to the original story and love the book for that. Just know that this book isn't just a shortened up version of the original Anne, so it could be confusing for those little ones not familiar with the story.
Suggested age range is 3-7, and kids will enjoy this first taste of Anne of Green Gables. Of course, I think Anne enthusiasts of any age will love having this sweet book on their bookshelf.
Many thanks to Tundra Books and to NetGalley for the chance to review this book.
April 30, 2020
I am not sure why the current obsession with Anne of Green Gables (tv show, chapter books, now a picture book) but I feel like a lot has to do with nostalgia. I will admit that I have read all the chapter books and have enjoyed them. This picture book, however, seems completely unnecessary. Who is the audience for this? Is it parents who loved Anne growing up and want to share it with their young child? If so, the language in the book is too sophisticated for the audience. Also, the repetition of "If I couldn't be Anne, Anne with an e" actually took away from the rhythm of the text. Just not really into picture books that I can't find a use for, whether it is for a one-on-one reading, a storytime, or fills a need. The illustrations are nice, with bright colors that are appealing. #Netgalley
May 14, 2020
'If I Couldn't Be Anne' by Kallie George with illustrations by Genevieve Godbout is a picture book in a series of books about Anne Shirley, the protagonist of 'Anne of Green Gables.'
Anyone familiar with Anne Shirley knows she has a pretty large imagination. Here she imagines all the things she could be if she couldn't be Anne. She imagines herself as a gull, or a tightrope walker or a fancy lady, among other things.
I've enjoyed this series. Kallie George has a really good sense of the original story. The real star of this series are the gorgeous illustrations by Genevieve Godbout. I'm a fan of her style and it is on full display here.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
Anyone familiar with Anne Shirley knows she has a pretty large imagination. Here she imagines all the things she could be if she couldn't be Anne. She imagines herself as a gull, or a tightrope walker or a fancy lady, among other things.
I've enjoyed this series. Kallie George has a really good sense of the original story. The real star of this series are the gorgeous illustrations by Genevieve Godbout. I'm a fan of her style and it is on full display here.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
May 17, 2020
Anne of Green Gables is one of my favorite childhood characters of all time so this book was very nostalgic for me. It is a beautifully illustrated (these illustrations were EVERYTHING!) love letter to Anne. There are charming situations and words presented from the original story that children reading this will really need to be familiar with Anne of Green Gables in order to fully enjoy the experience. All that being said, I think this may be more of a book for established fans of Anne of Green Gables, both children and adults alike, rather than a standard picture book for any and all children to pick up.
Thank you to @netgalley For providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to @netgalley For providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2020
I received an electronic ARC from Penguin Random House Canada through NetGalley.
Charming picture book to introduce younger readers to Anne of Green Gables.
George captures her whimsy and imagination as Anne shares who she would be if she couldn't be herself. Softly colored illustrations bring the story to life for young and older readers. The simple to follow text draws you in to celebrate Anne's life and dreams.
Could be an introductory read aloud to introduce classes to the classic - Anne of Green Gables.
Charming picture book to introduce younger readers to Anne of Green Gables.
George captures her whimsy and imagination as Anne shares who she would be if she couldn't be herself. Softly colored illustrations bring the story to life for young and older readers. The simple to follow text draws you in to celebrate Anne's life and dreams.
Could be an introductory read aloud to introduce classes to the classic - Anne of Green Gables.
May 15, 2020
Review copy provided by NetGalley
For fans of Anne of Green Gables, this book would be a delightful addition to their library. I haven't read Anne of Green Gables yet, but I can say that I still enjoyed this book. The illustrations are delightful and the text uses a recurring scaffold that would work as a great model for young readers to follow in a writing workshop mini-lesson. In all, this was a pleasant read, and though it is probably destined to be biggest among Anne of Green Gables collectors, it's still a worthwhile book in its own right. Nicely done.
For fans of Anne of Green Gables, this book would be a delightful addition to their library. I haven't read Anne of Green Gables yet, but I can say that I still enjoyed this book. The illustrations are delightful and the text uses a recurring scaffold that would work as a great model for young readers to follow in a writing workshop mini-lesson. In all, this was a pleasant read, and though it is probably destined to be biggest among Anne of Green Gables collectors, it's still a worthwhile book in its own right. Nicely done.
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