The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett follows Mary Lennox, a neglected and spoiled orphan sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy Yorkshire manor. While exploring, Mary discovers a hidden, neglected garden and works to restore it. Alongside her new friends Dickon and her cousin Colin, who has been told he is too sick to walk, they rejuvenate the garden and themselves. The book uses the term “cripple” to describe a bed-ridden character.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is cherished for its enchanting story and well-drawn characters. Positive feedback emphasizes its uplifting transformation theme and vivid, descriptive prose. Some critiques point to an outdated social perspective and slow pacing. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved classic for its inspirational qualities and imaginative depiction of nature's healing power.

A reader who would enjoy The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is typically enchanted by classic children's literature, rich in themes of rejuvenation and personal growth. This reader likely appreciates the charm of other works such as A Little Princess by Burnett and Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.

Heartwarming / Inspirational / Serene / Contemplative / Hopeful

- The Secret Garden has been adapted into numerous stage and film productions, with one of the earliest film adaptations released as a silent film in 1919.
- Frances Hodgson Burnett's inspiration for the garden in the novel came from her own experiences tending to a garden at her home, Great Maytham Hall, in Kent, England.
- After its initial publication as a novel in 1911, The Secret Garden went through a period of relative obscurity before gaining immense popularity in the 20th century, eventually being regarded as a classic of children's literature.

**Mary Lennox**  
A ten-year-old girl who begins as a spoiled and disagreeable child but gradually discovers her love for nature and gardens, which transforms her character.

**Dickon Sowerby**  
A 12-year-old boy known for his close connection to nature and his ability to communicate with animals, who plays a pivotal role in helping Mary and others discover the magic of the garden.

**Colin Craven**  
Mary's cousin of the same age, who has been sheltered due to his believed frailty, and whose life changes dramatically through his interactions with Mary and the garden.

**Martha Sowerby**  
A good-natured and straightforward young woman responsible for looking after Mary, providing her with friendship and guidance.

**Archibald Craven**  
Mary's uncle and Colin's father, who is often absent from the manor, grieving the loss of his wife and avoiding his responsibilities at home.

**Mrs. Medlock**  
The housekeeper at Misselthwaite Manor, responsible for overseeing the household and managing its affairs.

**Ben Weatherstaff**  
A grumpy but kind-hearted gardener who offers Mary guidance and support in understanding the garden and herself.

**Susan Sowerby**  
Martha and Dickon's mother, a wise and nurturing figure who provides support and guidance through her understanding of children’s needs.

**The Robin**  
A friendly European robin that plays a crucial role by guiding Mary to the hidden garden, symbolizing nature and discovery.

**Lilias Craven**  
The late wife of Archibald Craven, whose memory profoundly affects her family and is symbolically linked to the secret garden.

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Secret Garden Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

The Secret Garden Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

The Secret Garden Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

The Secret Garden Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

The Secret Garden Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

The Secret Garden Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-18

The Secret Garden Chapters 16-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-21

The Secret Garden Chapters 19-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-24

The Secret Garden Chapters 22-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-27

The Secret Garden Chapters 25-27 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Secret Garden Character Analysis

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Themes

The Secret Garden Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Secret Garden Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

The Secret Garden Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

The Secret Garden Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Secret Garden Essay Topics

The Secret Garden Further Reading & Resources

The Secret Garden

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