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The Secret Garden

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The Secret Garden

By: Frances Hodgson Burnett
Narrated by: Virginia McKenna
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About this listen

What the Narnia books did for wardrobes, The Secret Garden did for the walled garden. Few readers can fail to share with Mary Lennox that inexplicable thrill of anticipation at the notion of an enclosed and secret world, bursting with potential life and beauty but remaining hidden from view.

As Mary herself observes, 'Here was another locked door, added to the hundred in the strange house'. When she finds the key to the secret garden, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and enables other characters in the novel to open doors and windows into their own lives, bringing vitality and vigour back to the inhabitants of Misselthwaite Manor.

The author's interest in theosophy is perhaps reflected in the journey of the crippled Colin, who believes he can heal himself through positive thinking. And, as the roses return to the garden, so they bloom in Mary's cheeks - as she discovers an ancient and timeless magic that every gardener will recognise and understand.

Published in 1909, it is one of Frances Hodgson Burnett's most popular novels with adults as well as children. It has been adapted countless times for stage and screen and spawned spin-offs and sequels all over the world.

Public Domain (P)2007 Silksoundbooks Limited Classics

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All stars
Most relevant  
Wish I’d listened to this book years ago and read it to my children. A lovely story with a soft and gentle message. Perfect choice of narrator.

Loved it.

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I have say it’s a book and film that in the past has not interested me. Now in my 60”s I listened enthralled by the story and the wonderful reading by Virginia McKenna.

Not just for children

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I loved this heart warming story and would recommend it to all.
Although you may think of it as a children’s story it’s suitable for adults alike.

Wonderful

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This story is so beautiful it almost felt like reading something spiritual. Deeply healing experience. It was a hard decision to choose from the many versions available on Audible, but I am very glad I went with Virginia McKenna’s reading, she did a perfect job! Made me laugh and cry and shiver deliciously from time to time. Very enjoyable and touching performance.

Beautiful story, amazing performance

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We really loved this story and the telling of it. So wonderful and healing.

Beautiful telling of a beautiful story

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Keeps me warm on cold winter nights, waiting for spring. All you need is the magic...

Beautifully read

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This is a very sophisticated story, linking the renewal of both human and nature, side by side, hand in hand. It is the story of how seemingly irreversible hopelessness can be healed and joy brought where all was gloom. It is a story for all ages, both beautiful and inspiring. The narration, by Virginia McKenna, is just about the best I have ever heard. Her enthusiasm, feeling, and her ability to reproduce the voices in a totally believable way is quite extraordinary.

A truly beautiful superbly narrated story relevant to all ages.

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Virginia McKenna gives an absolutely incredible performance of this beautiful, beautiful book. When I read it as a child, some 50 years ago, I was enthralled by the secret garden - My favourite character was Dicken. McKenna gives such an amazing performance her Yorkshire accent so perfect. She breathes ‘wick’ into the story In the magical way springtime brings the garden into flower. I enjoyed every second and experienced a period of what can only be described as mourning when it was over. Highly recommended.

Beautiful, enchanting, brilliantly performed

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It is rare for a literary classic to be treated so excellently. I realised that I hadn’t read the book for a long time, and that my memory of it was muddled by the many film versions, some good but some bad. Hearing it read by Virginia McKenna was a delight! Can’t fault it at all.

Perfect

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I loved this - beautiful narration of a classic story. A perfect tonic during turbulent times.

Perfect!

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