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 Some critiques point to an outdated social perspective and slow pacing.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

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Secret Garden and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

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

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Secret Garden?

Reading Age

Book Details