Anne of Green Gables Book Series. L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables has enchanted readers for more than a century. Published on June 13, 1908, by L.C. Page & Co., the novel introduced the world to Anne Shirley, an imaginative 11-year-old orphan sent by mistake to Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert at Green Gables farm. Set in the fictional town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, Canada, the story launched a series that now includes eight main novels. Together, these books have sold over 50 million copies worldwide and have been translated into at least 36 languages. For readers aged 10 and up, the entire series spans approximately 2,800 pages. Penguin Random House, the current publisher of many editions, describes the series as chronicling Anne’s life from childhood to adulthood. Whether you are new to the series or revisiting it, understanding the correct reading order enhances the experience.
The Eight Main Novels in Chronological Order
Montgomery wrote the Anne books out of sequence, so the chronological order of Anne’s life differs from the order in which the books were published. For first-time readers, following the chronological order allows you to experience Anne’s journey step by step, from her arrival as a spirited orphan to her later years as a mother. The eight main novels in chronological order are as follows.
Anne of Green Gables (1908)
Anne Shirley, a talkative and imaginative orphan, is mistakenly sent to live with aging siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. They had intended to adopt a boy to help on their farm, but Anne’s charm wins them over. The novel follows her adventures and misadventures in Avonlea as she makes friends, excels at school, and learns what it means to belong.
Anne of Avonlea (1909)
Anne is now 16 years old and teaching at the Avonlea school. She continues to navigate friendships, rivalries, and her own growth into young adulthood. New characters, including the mischievous twins Davy and Dora, add humor and heart to the story.
Anne of the Island (1915)
Anne leaves Prince Edward Island to attend Redmond College in Kingsport, Nova Scotia. There she pursues her bachelor’s degree, tests her independence, and faces romantic decisions. This book marks a turning point in Anne’s transition from girl to woman.
Anne of Windy Poplars (1936)
Although published later in Montgomery’s career, this novel fits chronologically after Anne of the Island. Anne takes a position as principal of Summerside High School and lives in a house called Windy Poplars. Through letters to her fiancé Gilbert Blythe, she shares her experiences with quirky townspeople and new challenges.
Anne’s House of Dreams (1917)
Anne and Gilbert marry and settle into their first home, a small cottage by the sea known as the House of Dreams. The novel explores the early years of their marriage, including joys and sorrows, and introduces beloved characters such as Captain Jim and Leslie Moore.
Anne of Ingleside (1939)
Now a mother of five, Anne lives in the larger Ingleside home. The story focuses on her children and their adventures, as well as Anne’s own reflections on family life and her enduring relationship with Gilbert.
Rainbow Valley (1919)
Set during World War I, this novel shifts focus to the younger generation, especially Anne’s children and their friends. The children form a society in a nearby hollow called Rainbow Valley. The book also introduces the new minister, John Meredith, and his four children.
Rilla of Ingleside (1921)
Anne’s youngest daughter, Rilla, comes of age during the Great War. Through her eyes, readers experience the impact of the war on the Blythe family and the community of Glen St. Mary. It is the only Anne book written entirely from a third-person perspective focused on a character other than Anne herself.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
Montgomery wrote the eight Anne books over a span of more than 30 years, and she did not follow a linear timeline. For example, Anne of Windy Poplars was published in 1936 but takes place before Anne’s House of Dreams, which was published in 1917. Similarly, Rilla of Ingleside appeared in 1921, yet the chronologically earlier Anne of Ingleside was not published until 1939.
Most readers and educators recommend following the chronological order listed above for your first reading. This approach allows Anne’s character development to unfold naturally. If you prefer to read in publication order, you will still enjoy the series, but you may notice small inconsistencies in timeline or character ages. The chronological order is the more widely accepted method for new readers.
Box Set Options for the Anne of Green Gables Book Series
For those who want to own the entire series in print, boxed sets are available on Amazon. Two common options are an 8-book mass market box set and a 6-book paperback box set. The 8-book set includes all eight main novels, covering the full arc of Anne’s life. The 6-book set may omit later titles such as Rainbow Valley and Rilla of Ingleside, but the specific contents are not always listed clearly. If you want the complete story, the 8-book set is the safer choice.
In addition to the main series, an authorized prequel titled Before Green Gables was published in 2008 by Budge Wilson. It tells the story of Anne’s early life before she arrives at Green Gables. This prequel is not part of Montgomery’s original series but offers background for fans who want more of Anne’s world.
Why the Series Continues to Captivate Readers
Anne Shirley’s optimism, intelligence, and refusal to conform have made her a literary icon for over a century. The series appeals to children and adults alike because it combines humor, heartache, and timeless themes of belonging, identity, and love. The vivid descriptions of Prince Edward Island’s landscapes, from the Lake of Shining Waters to the White Way of Delight, transport readers into a world that feels both magical and real.
Teachers and librarians often recommend the Anne series as a gentle introduction to classic literature for young readers aged 10 and up. The books also reward adult rereading, as deeper layers of loss, resilience, and social commentary emerge with age. With more than 50 million copies sold and translations into 36 languages, the series remains a testament to Montgomery’s enduring storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many books are in the Anne of Green Gables series?
The series consists of eight main novels written by L.M. Montgomery. Some sources include additional works such as The Blythes Are Quoted, but most readers and publishers recognize the eight-book canon. An authorized prequel, Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson, was published in 2008 but is not part of Montgomery’s original series.
What is the correct reading order for the Anne books?
For a cohesive experience, read the books in chronological order of Anne’s life: Anne of Green Gables, Anne of Avonlea, Anne of the Island, Anne of Windy Poplars, Anne’s House of Dreams, Anne of Ingleside, Rainbow Valley, and Rilla of Ingleside. This order follows Anne from childhood through her daughter’s coming of age.
Are the Anne books suitable for children?
Yes, the series is generally recommended for readers aged 10 and up. The language is accessible, and the themes of friendship, imagination, and perseverance are appropriate for preteens. However, later books deal with heavier topics such as war and loss, which may prompt discussion with younger readers.
Can I buy the entire Anne of Green Gables series in one box set?
Yes, Amazon offers an 8-book mass market boxed set that includes all eight main novels. A 6-book paperback box set is also available but may not include the final two books. Check the product listing carefully to confirm which titles are included before purchasing.
Why are the publication years of the Anne books out of order with the story?
Montgomery wrote the novels out of sequence over three decades. She returned to earlier periods of Anne’s life after writing later stories, resulting in a mismatch between publication and chronological timeline. For example, Anne of Windy Poplars was published after Anne’s House of Dreams even though it occurs earlier in Anne’s life.
