This last week I finished The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery for the second time. The book was published in 1926 and is based on that time period. As with all Montgomery books, this story takes place in Canada.
Why it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite books:
The author is SO good at using compare and contrast. The main character, Valancy, begins her life in a stark, oppressive upbringing and Montgomery paints it all in grim, concrete tones. The second half of the book takes us to the complete opposite, which is so very satisfying after being plunged in poor Valancy’s first existence. Creature comforts!!
I love a good, fleshed out hero who resembles an actual person. And his name — Barney Snaith! — is perfect for our imperfect hero. Barney isn’t handsome (his eyebrows don’t match) but he has a charming grin. He drives a really uncool car. When we meet him, he’s practically given up on personal grooming.
My favorite part about Valency’s personal growth is that she finds the ability to be completely honest with her horrible relatives. She forsakes her inner fears and says whatever she thinks.
The language. Maybe it’s because I’m getting old, but more and more, I’m drawn to an author who can describe nature in poetic and musical language.
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