The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Summary:

Mary Lennox had parents that she didn't know and who didn't care about her. She lived in India and was always hot and sick. She was spoiled and raised by the Natives who were obliged to give her everything she wanted. Mary was a contrary, spoiled, arrogant, and sickly young girl. But everything changed when her whole household either ran away or died from Cholera. Mary was forced to move to her unknown Uncle who lived in a mansion with over a hundred rooms and had many gardens. When Mary starts to enjoy playing outdoors and begins to make friends, which include a robin, an animal charmer, and a grumpy gardener, Mary starts to change. But that's not all. Mary learns of a locked up hidden garden, which has no door and the key is buried. She also hears a child wailing in a faraway room in the big mansion. As Mary gets curious and discovers mysteries, everything changes.

Word of Caution:

The children in this book wonder what controls things. For example, what heals long-term illnesses, what causes the sun to rise or set, and what makes a boy able to be friends with wild animals? The children not knowing what it is called, name it magic. They even do a little chanting to it in one chapter that is easily skippable.

Positive Notes:

The Secret Garden is a wonderful classic that has lasted a hundred years and will last a hundred more. It's everything girls enjoy reading of. Animals, secrets, mysteries, friends, healing, and suspense. It shows the beauty of nature and everything it has to give. It shows how fresh air and exercise can heal. It portrays friendship and love. Overall a highly recommended and enjoyed book.

Who:

Great for girls age 8-13.