The Secret Garden: Chapter Summaries

Arrival: Mary Lennox arrives at Misselthwaite Manor after her parents die of cholera in India. She's sour, disagreeable, and unloved. Martha, her maid, treats her honestly rather than spoiling her.

The Robin: Mary befriends a robin who shows her where the garden key is buried. She finds the door hidden by ivy and enters the secret garden—locked for 10 years since Mrs. Craven died there.

Meeting Dickon: Martha's brother Dickon has magical connection with animals and nature. He helps Mary tend the garden, teaching her about plants and growth. Mary begins changing—less sour, more curious and caring.

The Crying: Mary hears someone crying at night and investigates, finding Colin Craven—her cousin, kept isolated in his room, convinced he's dying and will become a hunchback like he believes his father is.

Mary's Impact: Mary tells Colin about the secret garden, giving him hope. When Colin has hysterical tantrums, Mary shouts at him to stop—first person to challenge rather than coddle him.

Bringing Colin to the Garden: Mary and Dickon secretly bring Colin to the garden in his wheelchair. Fresh air, purpose, and the garden's beauty begin transforming him.

The Garden Blooms: Spring arrives, and the garden explodes with color and life. The roses Mary thought were dead bloom beautifully. The garden's transformation mirrors the children's healing.

Colin Walks: Colin stands and walks in the garden, having strengthened his legs through daily practice and belief in the garden's "Magic." He keeps his improvement secret, planning to surprise his father.

Mr. Craven Returns: Mr. Craven dreams his dead wife calls him to the garden. He returns to Misselthwaite and finds Colin healthy, strong, and walking among the blooming roses. The family is reunited and healed. The garden's revival has healed everyone who tended it.