cover image Ana of California

Ana of California

Andi Teran. Penguin, $16 trade paper (368p) ISBN 978-0-14-312649-2

Comparing Teran’s debut to its inspiration, L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables, would do Teran’s novel a disservice, as this contemporary take has a much quicker pace and a unique protagonist. To keep 15-year-old Los Angeles native Ana Cortez out of a group home, she is sent to Garber farms in Hadley, Calif., in a work-based living arrangement. Fans of Montgomery’s series will appreciate nods to blackberry bushes, Ana’s uncontrollable mouth, and the farm setting, but not recognizing these references will not hinder other readers’ enjoyment. The novel skews to a younger audience, with tougher subjects (such as Ana’s parents’ ties to gangs and drugs) minimally explored. The gravitas of Ana’s situation, and the very real possibility that Ana’s placement at Garber Farms will not work out, is also kept at a surface level. Ana’s relationship with the Garber siblings—Abbie and Emmett—inspires a few cute moments, but it develops too quickly. Ana’s budding friendship with Rye Moon, on the other hand, is one of the most enjoyable elements to the story. Readers will appreciate the references to music, books, and art, and the way shared artistic interests can bring people together. (June)