An orphan since infancy, the disarmingly precocious Anne arrives on-screen as a 12-year-old with fiery red hair (which she views as her own personal trial) and a tongue that never rests (which others see as their trial). To compensate for being passed over--and around--her whole life, she has fixed on a simple plan: Look for the best in everything. And if there isn't anything good, imagine it, then work to make it reality.

Placed in the home of elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew, Anne, for the first time in her life, receives unconditional love. And with that love comes instruction and discipline. Lessons learned include respect for elders, submission, forgiveness and godliness. Marilla even models the value of prayer and a consistent walk with God, stating, "God does not want you for a fair-weather friend."

As Anne grows and matures into an elegant young lady, she forges a cherished friendship with a neighbor girl, works hard to succeed at her academic ventures, learns that wealth doesn't ensure happiness and masters responsibility (on one occasion her thoughtfulness and presence of mind save the life of her friend's baby sister).