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The Secret Garden

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1910

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Book Brief

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Frances Hodgson Burnett

The Secret Garden

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1910
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Yorkshire, England • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1910

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett follows Mary Lennox, a neglected and spoiled orphan sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy Yorkshire manor. While exploring, Mary discovers a hidden, neglected garden and works to restore it. Alongside her new friends Dickon and her cousin Colin, who has been told he is too sick to walk, they rejuvenate the garden and themselves. The book uses the term “cripple” to describe a bed-ridden character.

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Serene

Contemplative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,230,221 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is cherished for its enchanting story and well-drawn characters. Positive feedback emphasizes its uplifting transformation theme and vivid, descriptive prose. Some critiques point to an outdated social perspective and slow pacing. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved classic for its inspirational qualities and imaginative depiction of nature's healing power.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Secret Garden?

A reader who would enjoy The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is typically enchanted by classic children's literature, rich in themes of rejuvenation and personal growth. This reader likely appreciates the charm of other works such as A Little Princess by Burnett and Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.

4.4

1,230,221 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Mary Lennox

A ten-year-old girl who begins as a spoiled and disagreeable child but gradually discovers her love for nature and gardens, which transforms her character.

A 12-year-old boy known for his close connection to nature and his ability to communicate with animals, who plays a pivotal role in helping Mary and others discover the magic of the garden.

Mary's cousin of the same age, who has been sheltered due to his believed frailty, and whose life changes dramatically through his interactions with Mary and the garden.

A good-natured and straightforward young woman responsible for looking after Mary, providing her with friendship and guidance.

Mary's uncle and Colin's father, who is often absent from the manor, grieving the loss of his wife and avoiding his responsibilities at home.

The housekeeper at Misselthwaite Manor, responsible for overseeing the household and managing its affairs.

A grumpy but kind-hearted gardener who offers Mary guidance and support in understanding the garden and herself.

Martha and Dickon's mother, a wise and nurturing figure who provides support and guidance through her understanding of children’s needs.

A friendly European robin that plays a crucial role by guiding Mary to the hidden garden, symbolizing nature and discovery.

The late wife of Archibald Craven, whose memory profoundly affects her family and is symbolically linked to the secret garden.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Yorkshire, England • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1910

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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