The Secret Garden / A Little Princess (Classic Library Series)
Classic Library Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (2,987)
What’s inside...
This ebook contains two classic novels by Frances Hodgson Burnett, 'The Secret Garden' and 'A Little Princess'. 'The Secret Garden' tells the story of Mary Lennox, an orphaned girl who discovers a magical garden that transforms her life and that of her sickly cousin, Colin. 'A Little Princess' follows Sara Crewe, a young girl who faces adversity in a London boarding school when her father dies and she is left penniless, only to later find salvation through a mysterious benefactor. Both novels explore themes of hardship, resilience, and the redemptive power of imagination.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
448 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mary Lennox
Sara Crewe
Ermengarde St. John
Becky
Mrs. Medlock
Martha Sowerby
Lottie Leigh
Dickon Sowerby
Colin Craven
Ben Weatherstaff
Miss Minchin
Discussion points
How do you think Mary changes from the beginning to the end of 'The Secret Garden'? What caused these changes?
In 'A Little Princess', how does Sara cope with her challenges? What can we learn from her attitude?
Both books explore the theme of friendship. Who are the main friends in each story, and why are their relationships important?
How do the settings in the books affect the characters? Can you think of a place that makes you feel different, like the garden does for Mary?
If you could give advice to any character in either book, who would it be and what would you tell them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes, such as resilience or kindness, to model reflective thinking.
Encourage your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own life, which can deepen their understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses, which shows your interest and encourages further contemplation.
Be open to diverse interpretations of the characters and plot, affirming your child’s views even if they differ from your own.
Praise thoughtful responses and insights to motivate your child and boost their confidence in expressing their ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: In 'The Secret Garden', Mary Lennox demonstrates resilience as she transforms from a spoiled child to someone who nurtures a neglected garden, paralleling her internal growth. Similarly, in 'A Little Princess', Sara Crewe maintains her kindness and imagination despite facing harsh circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to new environments and overcome personal challenges by maintaining a positive outlook and being proactive in finding solutions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Sara Crewe in 'A Little Princess' shows immense empathy by treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status. This virtue is also mirrored in 'The Secret Garden' as Mary learns to connect with others and care for the living plants in her garden.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these traits by understanding and valuing the feelings and experiences of others, thereby enhancing their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: 'The Secret Garden' highlights the transformational power of friendship as Mary, Colin, and Dickon support each other's growth and happiness. Similarly, the strong bonds Sara forms in 'A Little Princess' help her endure difficult times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships, which can provide emotional support and enhance their social skills.
Example Lesson: Using Imagination as a Strength
Explanation: Sara Crewe in 'A Little Princess' uses her imagination to escape and cope with her harsh realities, demonstrating that creativity can be a source of strength and resilience.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to engage in imaginative play can help them develop creative problem-solving skills and provide a healthy way to express emotions and handle life's challenges.
Example Lesson: The Healing Power of Nature
Explanation: In 'The Secret Garden', the restoration of the garden metaphorically represents the healing and rejuvenation of the garden's caretakers, emphasizing how nature can have a profound positive effect on mental and physical health.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to spend time outdoors, engage with nature, and understand the importance of environmental conservation as part of their personal and communal well-being.