Graphic Novel Review: The Secret Garden on 81st Street

 

Mary's parents are always working - so she rarely sees them. She spends her time playing video games and eating. But when her parents die, she's sent to live with an uncle she's never met. New York City is very different from California. And her Uncle doesn't believe in technology. 

Her uncle is grieving the loss of his husband and travels most of the time for work. Mary's sent out of the house to explore the city. Mary learns that the roof of the building used to be a beautiful garden. One day she finds the key. She believes the garden destroyed until a new friends shares that it's only sleeping.

Mary and her new friend Dickon work to restore the garden to it's former glory. They have the help from Colin who suffers from panic attacks and stays in his room most of the time. Mary is able to coax him out. But will their secret garden be discovered by Mary's uncle?

My Thoughts: I loved this book. I enjoy reading updated versions of classic stories. In this one - they've kept the original ideas but modernized everything. There is no part from India (which cuts out the racist moments of the original tale). The garden becomes a rooftop garden in New York City. The fresh air still plays a massive role as does gardening and getting dirty. The story centers on friendship and learning to care for other people - just the like original tale. A wonderful story that captures the essence and the best parts of the story - and the artwork is amazing!

Cover Thoughts: Cute

Source: My library

Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for school and public libraries.