Welcome back to Prince Edward Island! Rainbow Valley is the seventh book in the Anne of Green Gables series, but it cleverly shifts focus. Anne Blythe (née Shirley) is now a busy mother of six, and the real stars are her lively children and the new neighbors they befriend: the four Meredith kids.

The Story

The Merediths have just moved to Glen St. Mary. Their father, John Meredith, is the new Presbyterian minister—a kind but dreamy man who spends more time in his study with theology books than he does managing his rambunctious crew. His children—Jerry, Faith, Una, and Carl—are essentially left to raise themselves. They get into all sorts of harmless trouble, from keeping a pet rooster in the church to accidentally dyeing their hair green. The town gossips are scandalized, but Anne's children—Jem, Walter, Nan, Di, Shirley, and Rilla—see kindred spirits. Together in their secret hideaway, Rainbow Valley, they form a fierce, loyal band, navigating childhood pranks, schoolyard dramas, and the quiet ache of missing a mother.

Why You Should Read It

This book feels like a cozy visit with old friends, but with a fresh perspective. Montgomery's genius is in how she writes children. They're not just sweet—they're funny, stubborn, imaginative, and deeply real. The heart of the story is their friendship and their shared, unspoken understanding of loss. It's not all lighthearted; there are moments of real poignancy as the Meredith kids long for guidance and a mother's love. Yet, Montgomery balances this with so much warmth and humor. You'll laugh at their antics and be moved by their quiet resilience. It's a celebration of found family and the simple, wild freedom of a childhood spent outdoors.

Final Verdict

This is a must-read for anyone who cherishes the Anne of Green Gables series. It's also a perfect, comforting read for anyone who enjoys stories about childhood, community, and the small, everyday adventures that shape us. If you're new to Montgomery, you could start here, but you'll appreciate the cameos from beloved characters more if you've read the earlier books. Grab a cup of tea, find a sunny spot, and let yourself be transported to Rainbow Valley. It's a place where the grass is always green, friendship is forever, and a little mischief is good for the soul.