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Ok, maybe we didn‘t need a retelling of Secret Garden, but the updated characters are so well done and giving Colin an anxiety disorder was brilliant. I think this is a really good way to get kids to think about invisible illness and encourage empathy. And Dickon shrugging and saying everybody‘s weird so what‘s the big deal was perfect. I really enjoyed it, and so did kiddo (who recommended it to me).

This was the book I didn‘t think I needed. The Secret Garden was lovely. Why the need for a remake? Well, let me tell you. THIS is why. The garden in this case is an urban garden. Anxiety, panic disorder, and the different types of dealing with death are dealt with in such a nuanced and thoughtful way. Counseling is shown as a positive. The illustrations take the story to the next level. I can‘t wait to recommend this book to young patrons.

The plot and emotions of this book saved it from a so-so. I didn‘t really enjoy the art style and all the women had the same body type. Also, how is a small child going to the Met and the Natural History Museum without any money? New York isn‘t cheap, and yet Mary‘s seeing Monet paintings without spending any money. Overall, 4⭐️