Tom's Midnight Garden
229
Novel • Fiction
•
Science Fiction•
Children`s LiteraturePeter's house • 1950s
1958
Middle grade
8-12 years
Tom's Midnight Garden is the story of twelve-year-old Tom, who, while staying with his aunt and uncle, discovers a magical, mysterious garden where he befriends a young girl named Hatty. Together, they explore the garden, forming a deep bond while navigating themes of friendship, loss, aging, and time, in what is considered a classic children’s book by Philippa Pearce.
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Fantastical
Contemplative
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Tom's Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce is lauded for its imaginative storytelling and emotional depth. Critics praise its timeless appeal and intricate narrative, capturing the magic of childhood. Some note its slow pacing, which may deter less patient readers. Overall, its rich character development and evocative imagery make it a beloved classic.
Readers who enjoyed the magic of time travel and childhood adventure in The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis or the nostalgic exploration of mysteries in A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle will find Tom's Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce enchanting. Ideal for fans of timeless, poignant children's literature.
26,905 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tom's Midnight Garden won the Carnegie Medal in 1958, an award given annually in the UK to the author of an outstanding book for children.
The novel has been adapted into several formats, including a stage play, a television series, and a radio drama, demonstrating its enduring popularity and appeal across different media.
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Author Philippa Pearce was inspired to write Tom's Midnight Garden partly by her own childhood experiences and the Victorian-era garden at her family's home.
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229
Novel • Fiction
•
Science Fiction•
Children`s LiteraturePeter's house • 1950s
1958
Middle grade
8-12 years
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