The Grace of Wild Things by Heather Fawcett

 

Grace is certain that no one will ever adopt her from the orphanage because of her magic, which causes those who look at her to remember their most shameful moment. So she turns to the one person who couldn't be afraid of her: the witch in the woods, who the children at the orphanage whisper about in the night. What Grace longs for above all else is a home, so when she discovers that the witch's cottage is cozy and welcoming, with just a hint of wicked magic in its corners, she couldn't ask for more.

But the witch is a different story. She takes Grace in on one condition: Grace must complete all 100 ½ spells in the witch's grimoire before spring, or the witch will take Grace's magic. But if Grace succeeds, she can continue to live in the cottage as the witch's apprentice.

With the help of her new friend Sareena, and some more unexpected allies from the village and surrounding forest, Grace begins the daunting task of learning every spell in the book. But when the witch and her home are threatened, there is suddenly more at stake than Grace's magic. 

 

I heard about this book from the Kindred Spirits Book Club podcast (a lovely podcast where two friends discuss the Anne series and some of its adaptations), where they described it as a middle-grade fantasy inspired by Anne of Green Gables. I was instantly floored--because how could three of my favorite things exist in one single book? And even though that description raised my expectations through the roof, I wasn't disappointed! 

The author does a magnificent job adapting Anne of Green Gables into a magical setting. Grace is perfectly Anne-like in her fancifulness, long imaginative monologues, and love of the beautiful and magical. But she's different enough from Anne to make her seem like her own person, and not just a carbon copy. All of the other characters are similarly well-done; you can nearly always tell who they're inspired by, but they all have unique and distinct traits that make the read a little more unexpected. The Grace of Wild Things is thoroughly its own story, while holding onto the charm and whimsy that makes readers love Anne of Green Gables. And you don't need to have read Anne to enjoy this book. The cozy atmosphere and relaxed pacing make it the perfect read for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy a beautiful read. 

And make sure to check out the Kindred Spirits Book Club podcast if you're an Anne fan!