The Secret Garden {Audiobook}

 

While The Secret Garden is perhaps best known through its various screen adaptations, nothing can compare to reading the book itself--that is where the true magic lies. The audio version read by Glenda Jackson is particularly well done. Listeners will feel as though events are playing on the screen of their mind as subtle sound effects and atmospheric music plays quietly in the background. It is truly a cinematic experience for the ears.

I had read the physical book at least twice but I have to say the audio really brought out of the enchantment of the story (the only downside was wanting to stop and write down a quote--much easier done when reading a book).  The characters truly came alive under the narrator's excellent interpretation and voicing.  If you have only ever seen the movie, you must dive into the book itself.

Mary has been a pampered but largely unloved little girl who is truly the "garden" of importance (one may argue that her cousin and uncle are secret gardens as well). As readers see what happens when love and caring are planted in her heart, the results are pure magic. The supporting characters: Martha (her maid), Dickon (resident animal whisperer), Ben (the gruff gardener), and Colin (the spoiled heir) all make their impression on the wild heart being tamed. If you are a parent or grandparent, this is a must read--definitely a story to be savored together in either book or audio form. Beautiful lessons for life are waiting to be tilled and brought forth from this literary gem! 

Disclaimer: I received a digital audiobook of The Secret Garden from NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.