Anne of Green Gables: a Graphic Novel, Adapted by Mariah Marsden, Illustrated by Brenna Thummler.
       This graphic novel tells the classic tale of Anne Shirley but through beautiful, colorful, cartoonish illustrations. It begins with the Cuthberts receiving Anne, an orphan. They hoped to get a boy that would help them with their farm. Matthew Cuthbert acts like a father to her and they become really close. Marilla, Matthew's wife, does not take well to Anne at first, but grows to love her spiritedness even though she tries to still make a polite lady out of her. Anne finds a wonderful friend in Dianna and they enjoy school and life together. Gilbert Blithe, a boy from school, and Anne do not see eye to eye at first. Eventually, as Anne grows older they become friends and possible romantic interests of each other towards the end of the story. Anne also gets the opportunity to go to a school for teachers. After, this higher education, she moves back home. However, while she was at school, Matthew passes away and Anne grieves him greatly. The book ends with Anne and Gilbert reconciling and Anne reflects on how great a home Avonlea has been.
     This book would be most appropriate for third and fourth-grade students. It is as long as a chapter book, but the pictures really help to break up overwhelming text. The illustrations also serve to move the story in ways like demonstrating subtle facial expressions without having to expressly describe them in words. This book could help students transition from reading picture books to reading chapter books. Additionally, it could help build
students' confidence in reading by helping them infer words and plot through pictures and text.