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Reviews tagging 'Abandonment'
The Secret Garden on 81st Street: A Modern Retelling of the Secret Garden by Ivy Noelle Weir
1 review
clarabooksit's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I can’t remember ever having read The Secret Garden and I only vaguely remember the movie, so I can’t speak to this book as a retelling, but I thought this was a cute book with diverse characters and a mostly satisfying story.
The standout reason to read this, especially for kids, is how well it represents an anxiety disorder and with such care and compassion. Not to mention the amazing therapy rep—the best scenes are with the therapist.
My one complaint is that while Mary is the main character, she doesn’t get to be the star. While she helps others, she doesn’t get the same on-page kind of help that she needs as a neglected and suddenly orphaned kid. I wish we’d gotten to see her decide to speak to someone about her feelings.
I’d still recommend this to kids so that they can see good representation of other kids struggling with mental health as well as how important and positive therapy can be.
The standout reason to read this, especially for kids, is how well it represents an anxiety disorder and with such care and compassion. Not to mention the amazing therapy rep—the best scenes are with the therapist.
My one complaint is that while Mary is the main character, she doesn’t get to be the star. While she helps others, she doesn’t get the same on-page kind of help that she needs as a neglected and suddenly orphaned kid. I wish we’d gotten to see her decide to speak to someone about her feelings.
I’d still recommend this to kids so that they can see good representation of other kids struggling with mental health as well as how important and positive therapy can be.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, and Grief
Moderate: Ableism, Death of parent, and Abandonment
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