The Secret Garden (Royal Collector's Edition) (Case Laminate Hardcover with Jacket)
What’s inside...
Mary Lennox, a 10-year-old girl born in India to wealthy British parents, becomes orphaned and is sent to live with her uncle in Yorkshire, England. She discovers a locked garden and as she brings it back to life, she undergoes a personal transformation. The garden serves as a central symbol in Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel, The Secret Garden, exploring themes of rejuvenation and healing. This collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket and retains the original text from 1911.
Age
12-13
Length
196 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mary Lennox
Martha Sowerby
Dickon Sowerby
Colin Craven
Ben Weatherstaff
Archibald Craven
Dr. Craven
Discussion points
What do you think about Mary's transformation throughout the story? How does the garden help her change?
If you were Mary, would you have explored the secret garden? Why or why not?
How do the friendships in the book change the characters? Can you share a time when a friend helped you in a big way?
What is the importance of nature in 'The Secret Garden'? How do you feel when you spend time outdoors?
What lessons do you think this story teaches about patience and care?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to fully understand your child's perspective and feelings about the story.
Draw parallels between the book’s themes and the child's own life experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite parts of the book and why they stood out, fostering a deeper connection to the story.
Promote critical thinking by asking your child what they would have done differently than the characters in various situations.
Highlight the moral lessons from the story and discuss how they can be applied in everyday life, reinforcing the book’s educational value.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and empathy
Explanation: In 'The Secret Garden', Mary and Colin develop a deep friendship that helps them overcome personal difficulties. Through their interactions, they learn to empathize with each other's struggles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to build meaningful relationships and understand different perspectives, helping them to become more compassionate in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The healing power of nature
Explanation: The garden in the story symbolizes renewal and healing. As Mary spends time in the garden, her own health and mood improve significantly.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage with nature, whether through gardening or playing outside, to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
Example Lesson: Resilience and personal growth
Explanation: Mary's transformation from a spoiled and sour girl to a thoughtful friend shows the power of resilience. She adapts to her new life and learns to find joy in her surroundings.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to embrace change and challenges as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Mary's curiosity leads her to discover the secret garden and ultimately to help Colin. Her explorative spirit is a driving force in the story.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to seek out new experiences and learn from them, fostering a lifelong love for discovery.