This classic book introduces the disliked character of Mary Lennox, a gaunt and spoiled little girl. Mary lived in India with her parents and maids who took care of her, dressing her and feeding her themselves. One day, everyone in the house died from a contagious illness and Mary was left alone. Thus, she was sent to live with her uncle in England. Mary stayed there for quite some time, hating everything about the situation she was in until she started to befriend various people at her uncle's immense home; these people being a gardener named Ben Weatherstaff, a maid named Martha, a sickly boy named Colin, and a nature-loving boy named Dickon. Through the relationships of Ben, Martha, Colin, and Dickon, Mary grows into a polite, pretty and truly likeable girl. Her outer appearance grew normal and her personality was cleansed as well.
The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett, is one of my
favorite book that I have ever read so far; the plot, the description of the
scenery, and characters had me absolutely captivated. It was so much fun to
follow through the adventures of a little girl and how she changed from one
thing to another; the way the author worded every sentence blended perfectly
with the story. However, as amazing as a book this is, I wouldn't recommend it
for just anyone; to feel personally connected with it, this book needs to be
read by true lovers of nature and life, who have a thirst for adventure and
curiosity. I don't think that just anyone would feel the same way as I do about
it. That being said, if you are a person who enjoys a good story, I would
definitely recommend it. But, as a personal lover of classic books, I've felt a
deep connection with his book and it will remain one of the best books to me until
I read another one almost as good as this.
Reviewed by Anna A., Grade 9
Downtown Central Library
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