The Secret Garden
Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett
Illustrator: Maria Louise Kirk
Written in 1910, it also provides a fascinating insight
into life during the British Empire. The days of housemaids and rajas are long
gone. But The Secret Garden remains relevant to young readers today. It deals
with emotional issues like death and change in an easily accessible way.
There is much about The Secret Garden
that makes it a classic.
For one, the difference between
cheerful Dickon and sullen Colin. Dickon has no material wealth but endless
life and energy. In contrast, Colin is heir to the family fortune yet has a
miserable soul. Ben, the gardener, is another intriguing character. He watches
over the children, even sharing their secret. He provides a connection back to
Colin’s dead mother and plays a delightful part at the end of the story. The
historical perspective of the times and lives of those that lived during this
period is very accurate and depicts everyday life during the early 1900’s.
Compared to many modern children’s books, The Secret
Garden is a long read. This may put off some young readers. But those who stick
with it will discover a rewarding and heartwarming tale!
Sample Questions
- Who helps Mary find the key to the secret garden?
- What is the name of the crow in the book?
- How did Archibald's wife die?
Activities and Discussions
- Identify England and India on a map
- Draw a map of the journey Mary took from India to England
- Identify three different household items Mary and her family used that is different from today's household items.
About the Author
Illustrator
Other Books Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Reference
Burnett, F. H., & Kirk, M. L. (1962). The Secret
Garden. Philadelphia: Lippincott.
Russell,
ReplyDeleteTwo activities for this novel include the following:
1. Take a field trip to a local greenhouse, nursery, or botanical conservatory and discuss which plants and flowers are in the novel.
2. Introduce Monet and have students paint an impressionist style secret garden.