Emily Climbs (Emily, #2) Summary & Key Insights

'Emily Climbs,' the second book in L.M. Montgomery's Emily series, follows Emily Starr's journey as she navigates adolescence and the complexities of ambition, self-discovery, and relationships. Unlike the idyllic setting of her earlier years, this installment portrays a more challenging and realistic portrayal of growing up.

The central plot revolves around Emily's burgeoning literary aspirations. Having secretly finished a novel, she faces the daunting task of finding a publisher. This pursuit leads her into interactions with various adults in the publishing world, exposing her to both encouragement and disappointment. Her tenacity is tested, teaching her valuable lessons about resilience and the realities of the publishing industry. The eventual rejection of her manuscript, while heartbreaking, serves as a crucial step in her development as a writer. She learns to revise, refine her craft, and persevere despite setbacks, a testament to her strong character.

Alongside her writing ambitions, Emily grapples with evolving friendships and romantic interests. Her relationship with Dean Priest, a young man with intellectual aspirations similar to her own, takes center stage. Their connection is complex, marked by mutual admiration and shared literary interests, but also by moments of misunderstanding and conflict arising from their individual personalities and priorities. Their romance, while not fully consummated, forms a significant part of Emily's emotional development.

Other key characters contribute to Emily’s growth. Her close friend, Perry, provides unwavering support and companionship, offering a contrasting perspective to Emily’s more introspective nature. The presence of other characters, like her Aunt Elizabeth, illustrates the varying degrees of understanding and support Emily receives from the adults around her.

Overarching themes in 'Emily Climbs' include the importance of perseverance, the challenges of pursuing one's dreams, and the complexities of human relationships. Montgomery explores the delicate balance between ambition and self-doubt, illustrating how Emily learns to navigate both with increasing maturity. The novel also touches upon the societal expectations placed upon young women at the turn of the 20th century and how Emily strives to break free from those constraints while still maintaining her integrity. The narrative highlights the transformative power of both success and failure, emphasizing the continuous learning process inherent in personal growth.

Ultimately, 'Emily Climbs' is a story of self-discovery. Emily's journey is not one of effortless success; instead, it’s a realistic portrayal of the struggles, triumphs, and complexities involved in finding one's voice and pursuing one's passion. The book establishes Emily as a determined and complex character, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead in her pursuit of becoming a writer.