'Misery in books is overrated', I thought, and honestly, very few books have the knack of reaching deep into you- and twisting your heart. I still remember the evening I sat down with Rilla of Ingleside.

Read moreįor once, when a book claims to change your life, it actually does. The relationship that Rilla shared with her brother Walter, was so special and quite took me back to my own relationship with my brother Sam, who also died a young and violent death.though, like Walter's death, it was quick.This is my favorite of the 'Anne' books aside from Anne of Green Gables. We hear of them in their letters to Rilla and in the journal she faithfully keeps.I loved how the young folk had a special little valley where they went for play and as they grew up they met there for talking, sharing, thinking, and wooing. So many of the young men of the Glen sign up to go as soon as the call comes. The story is filled with the lives and loves of the young people. Also there is the hysterically funny family feline, Doc, so named for his Dr. Not the least of which is the family dog, Dog Monday, who loves Jem with a passion unknown to most of mankind. I did not realize the impact of the Great War upon Canada and it's citizens.The youngest daughter in the family, Rilla, is our main character but this narrative has loads of interesting characters.

The eve of the Great War is upon us with all of its darkness, horrors, losses and sadness. Montgomery has written it in a nostalgic manner which I think some readers may not care for but which I enjoyed a great deal.Anne with an e, and the good doctor's children are grown and growing up. Montgomery bk 8 (4 1/2*)This is an endearing book. Walter was such a gentle, sensitive soul and his letter to Rilla was powerful.While the 'Anne' series had its ups and downs, 'Rilla of Ingleside' finished the series perfectly. The author did this beautifully and Walter's poem was truly poignant. It was so incredibly moving and I could clearly picture him - dear, faithful, little dog.I also liked the analogy of the Pied Piper calling the boys to war. As Rilla's world crashed around her and challenges bombarded her, she had to grow up quickly, In those unpredictable times, she went from a naive, frivolous teenager to a mature, strong, young woman.I shed tears throughout 'Rilla of Ingleside' far more than I did in another 'Anne: book and Dog Monday's story had me sobbing. Unable to protect their men, they put on brave faces and went to work keeping vigil, knitting and baking for the soldiers and planning rushed weddings.

Set during the years of World War I, it gave a wonderful insight into what the women, who had brothers, husbands and lovers on the front, had to endure for four long, torturous years. This last book in the 'Anne' series was, by far, my favourite.

Rilla of ingleside lucy maud montgomery