Plot Summary

Tom's Midnight Garden

Philippa Pearce
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Tom's Midnight Garden

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1958

Book Brief

Philippa Pearce

Tom's Midnight Garden

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1958
Book Details
Pages

229

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Science Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Peter's house • 1950s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1958

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.1

26,905 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Tom's Midnight Garden?

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.

4.1

26,905 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

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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Book Details
Pages

229

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Science Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Peter's house • 1950s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1958

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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