Take a photo of a barcode or cover
A review by rea
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
emotional
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
This is a children's book that has stood the test of time for a reason. Mary starts out completely unlikeable and although she gets better she can still be a grumpy kid at times.
Mary and Colin both grow into themselves in the garden whilst Dicken watches one like a proud older brother who's been able to charm them in the way he does with his animals.
It's really beautiful and gentle and lovely.
It's a shame that it's got a fair chunk of casual racism about 'native Indians' it's not aggressive but it's icky to read, it's definitely of it's time.
Mary and Colin both grow into themselves in the garden whilst Dicken watches one like a proud older brother who's been able to charm them in the way he does with his animals.
It's really beautiful and gentle and lovely.
It's a shame that it's got a fair chunk of casual racism about 'native Indians' it's not aggressive but it's icky to read, it's definitely of it's time.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism