House of Dreams: The Life of L.M. Montgomery

Gr 6 Up—Most known for Anne of Green Gables, author L.M. Montgomery (1874–1942) endured many hardships while dedicating herself to a prolific and renowned career. This account of her life buzzes with energy and emotion reminiscent of her own writing, and incorporates her diary entries for a more personal telling. Readers will share in her bemusement as she rejects a string of suitors in favor of her ambitions, celebrate her triumphs as a successful—though unfairly paid—author, and feel the overwhelming demand for more Anne. Rosenberg crucially doesn't shy away from discussing mental health, sometimes using Montgomery's books as analysis for her state of mind. Her experiences with depression is laid bare, her moments of freneticism or despondence vivid through riveting prose. Rosenberg also details her subject's imagination, zest for nature, and her perfectly imperfect characters who still continue to touch so many. Devotees will relish the tidbits of Montgomery's daily life that found their way into Anne's world. The book also boasts Morstad's delicately and prettily penned illustrations and an expansive bibliography. However, Rosenberg's biggest misstep is not tackling Montgomery's problematic works, notably Kilmeny of the Orchard and the short story "Tannis of the Flats." Considering the deep dive Rosenberg takes with the iconic author's other writings, the absence of it here is strongly felt.