Anne of Green Gables

Anne Shirley is a freckled, red haired girl who has spent her early years in an orphanage where affection was scarce. She faces life with optimism and a ready smile, turning small disappointments into chances to dream. When she is eleven, stern Marilla and kind-hearted Matthew Cuthbert decide to adopt a child to help on their rural farm called Green Gables. They expect a boy to pitch in, but the talkative, imaginative girl arrives instead. Her quick wit, stubborn streak, and warm spirit soon begin to reshape the quiet household and the village around them. Her letters and lively talks bring color to the farm, and she learns to balance dreams with the daily work that keeps Green Gables alive.

This 1979 anime adaptation comes from Nippon Animation as part of the World Masterpiece Theater lineup and brings Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic tale to TV with Isao Takahata at the helm. The visuals lean on soft watercolor like palettes and expressive character designs that fit the tone.

Critics and viewers have praised its gentle handling of adolescence, belonging, and resilience. The series follows a clever, stubborn girl who uses imagination and courage to find a place in a welcoming community around Green Gables, from school days to seasonal chores, with empathy and humor.

The show stands out for its artful animation and patient storytelling within the World Masterpiece Theater lineup. It helped bring a beloved Canadian novel to Japanese and international TV audiences, inspiring future adaptations and leaving a lasting impression on families who grew up watching thoughtful, character driven animation.

There are no major awards documented for this adaptation, though it earned steady admiration from fans and viewers of the World Masterpiece Theater series. Its charm lies in faithful presentation and gentle character work rather than prize recognitions, which makes it a favorite for classroom screenings and family viewing.