The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden is a book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, first published in 1911. This timeless children’s classic tells the story of Mary Lennox, a lonely and headstrong ten-year-old orphan who, after losing her parents in India, is sent to live in her reclusive uncle’s grand but gloomy manor on the Yorkshire moors. Bitter and neglected at first, Mary’s life begins to shift when whispers of a long-locked, hidden garden reach her ears. Drawn by curiosity and a mysterious robin, she discovers the secret gate — and with it, a place that holds the promise of change. As Mary befriends her fragile cousin Colin Craven, and the gentle, nature-loving boy Dickon, the neglected garden becomes a sanctuary of hope, renewal, and quiet magic. The garden’s gradual revival mirrors the inner transformations of the children: their friendships deepen, their spirits lift, and their outlook on life broadens. Through the healing power of nature and companionship, the children learn compassion, resilience, and the beauty of second chances. Although published over a century ago, this enduring story remains a cornerstone of classic children’s literature. Its themes of growth, healing, friendship and the wonder of discovery make it as relevant today as when it was first released.