“The Secret Garden” written by Frances Hodgson Burnett is truly a timeless and wonderful children's classic. The book tells the story of Mary Lennox, an orphan sent to her unknown uncle and Colin Craven, her sickly, spoiled cousin whose mother died giving birth to him. The story relates to the adventure in the secret garden which changes them into healthy and empathetic children.
The story is about Mary Lennox, an unwanted and isolated ten year-old girl living in India. As her parents are only concerned about parties and social life, the child becomes a spoiled and snobbish girl. When an epidemic of cholera kills her family, Mary is sent to her uncle's remote country house, who is almost completely withdrawn into himself after his wife’s death. In England, she lives at Misselthwaite where she must learn to be independent. Soon, Mary discovers a walled, secret garden that has been locked up for the last ten years after her aunt's death. The girl hears somebody crying and explores the whole house. Finally, she finds Colin, her spoiled and sick cousin who is isolated in his room. Mary, Colin and their new friend- Dicon enjoy each other’s company, they restore the secret garden, which helps them to regenerate themselves effectively.
”The Secret Garden” is an excellent novel of ideas and of the most original and brilliant children's books. The book is perfect for young readers because of the clear and simple language. The complex characters and the moving plot make it even more interesting .
It is worth reading as the book has its own magic and will boost the imagination of any child. What is more, the storyline becomes the sort of a metaphor for life- against the saying, even the leopard can change his spots.