Genre: Fiction, Children’s literature, a classic
Key Stage: Year 2+
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett (1911)
Plot: This story tells the tale of a young girl called Mary Lennox who was raised as a spoilt English child in India. At the start of the book, her parents die therefore, she is sent to live in Yorkshire with her uncle. In his manor, she discovers a secret garden that changes her for the better.
Positives: I didn’t think I would enjoy this book because it was advertised for children so I thought it would be simple and boring however, I loved it and think that everyone of any age should read this novel. It expresses the effect that nature has on a soul and its importance through the smallest ways, even though you may not acknowledge it. While caring for the garden, Mary begins to care for herself and others, and she recognizes that there are more delights life can offer. It is a wholesome story of happiness and growth that would be delightful in spring, but also on a dreary night. I loved how optimistic this book was as it shows that having hope can help a lot in every situation in life.
Negatives: I did not dislike any aspect of this book; the setting was magnificent, the characters were lovable, and the process from discovering the secret garden to cherishing it was incredible.
Reviewer: Rose, Year 9