The Secret Garden
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4.5 • 783 Ratings
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Publisher Description
It is now one of Burnett's most popular novels, and is considered to be a classic of English children's literature. Several stage and film adaptations have been produced.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Soothing and mellifluous, native Briton Bailey's voice proves an excellent instrument for polishing up a new edition of Burnett's story. Bratty and spoiled Mary Lennox is orphaned when her parents fall victim to a cholera outbreak in India. As a result, Mary becomes the ward of an uncle in England she has never met. As she hesitantly tries to carve a new life for herself at imposing and secluded Misselthwaite Manor, Mary befriends a high-spirited boy named Dickon and investigates a secret garden on the Manor grounds. She also discovers a sickly young cousin, Colin, who has been shut away in a hidden Manor room. Together Mary and Dickon help Colin blossom, and in the process Mary finds her identity and melts the heart of her emotionally distant uncle. Bailey makes fluid transitions between the voices and accents of various characters, from terse Mrs. Medlock and surly groundskeeper Ben to chipper housemaid Martha. And most enjoyably, she gives Mary a believably childlike voice. A brief biography of the author is included in an introduction. Ages 6-12.
Customer Reviews
A Stroke of Luck
Late one afternoon, a friend phoned me and asked if I'd like to go see a play. The play's title?: The Secret Garden. I saw the play with her; we both cried so hard. It was a beautiful story. Soon after, I read the book. I highly encourage you to read it; it's mysteriously heart-warming to the point of almost fear. You'll be mezmorized and fall into the world of little orphan Mary Lenox.
Enjoyable Read!
Definitely an easy read that has helped me get back into reading fiction. Wonderful storytelling and character growth throughout.
New life and happiness
What a story! I often heard of this book when I was young, but it wasn’t until I was older that I actually had an opportunity to read it. Miss Mary, Master Colin Craven and Deakon all contributed Magic combined with what was in their hearts and in their memories to make their world a better place.