A review by lex_r
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

adventurous emotional lighthearted reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I have always wanted to read this book as a young adult but never got the chance. I loved the movie and I can say I equally loved most of this book. I refrain from giving it five stars because of the racism and colonialism that are somewhat central the the origins of Mary, the main character. Mary is the daughter of British colonizers who live in India, unforeseen circumstances lead Mary to England which is where she learns and develops her character. I love the child playfulness and the wonder that all the children blossom into, but it is hard to ignore the blatant racism by the main characters. Compared to the the other novels that I have read this year the happy ending of this was refreshing and it was really nice to read a book geared toward children. 
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