The Secret Garden

At first, Mary Lennox is resistant to the change in her circumstances. After all, she’s moved from the heat of India to the wet wilderness of Yorkshire and an unknown uncle. However as she begins to explore the grounds of Misselthwaite Manor something is unlocked in Mary. Furthermore a robin leads her to discover the key to The Secret Garden that was walled off after the death of Mary’s uncle’s wife. What might Mary discover? Could it be that Martha’s gardening brother, Dickon, might help Mary recover something wonderful?

Within the manor house, Mary is aware of howling and wailing. Mary is determined to discover its source despite Mrs Medlock’s denials. The boy behind the door is ill and lonely and scared. How can Mary help him? Could The Secret Garden offer this boy a lifeline, and a connection to Mary’s uncle, too?

Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic story is brought to glorious life in Claire Freedman’s retelling. The text is comprehensive, flowing and legitimate. We realise Mary’s discovery, release and hope and how her actions transform those about her. Furthermore Shaw Davidson’s illustrations are empathetic, lush and beautiful. This is a proud and wonderful interpretation of The Secret Garden,