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Anne of Green Gables, Chapter 23 summary

Chapter 23 of 38 · 10 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 23, Anne Shirley accepts Josie Pye’s dare to walk a roof ridgepole, falls, and breaks her ankle, while Marilla realizes how deeply she loves her. During seven weeks of recovery, Anne receives kind visits, finds comfort in imagination and friendship, and eagerly hears about Miss Stacy’s teaching.

What happens

  1. At Diana Barry’s party, the girls exchange dares, and Josie Pye challenges Anne to walk the kitchen roof’s ridgepole.
  2. Despite Diana’s warning, Anne climbs up, takes several steps, and falls onto the lower side of the roof.
  3. Mr. Barry carries Anne home, and Marilla’s fear reveals how precious Anne is to her.
  4. A doctor discovers a broken ankle, and Anne admits that fear of Josie’s scorn drives her dangerous choice.
  5. During seven weeks of recovery, friends bring news and gifts, while Anne’s imagination helps relieve her boredom.
  6. As Anne begins to walk again, she praises her visitors and eagerly describes Miss Stacy’s school activities.

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In this chapter

What to notice

Anne identifies the pressure behind her reckless choice. Her admission connects the injury to pride rather than any practical need to climb.

Quick check

What does the doctor discover about Anne’s injury?

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