The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett "One of the most delightful and enduring classics of children's literature." The Secret Garden is a children's novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett first published as a book in 1911, after a version was published as an American magazine serial beginning in 1910. Set in England, it is one of Burnett's most popular novels and is considered a classic of English children's literature. Several stage and film adaptations have been made. Mary whose nickname is fitting, she is spoiled and disagreeable, the death of her mother and father still leaves her the same, neglected. She is sent to Misselthwaite Manor a 100 room mansion that is surrounded by the gloomy moors to live with her uncle. Praise for the book “It is only the exceptional author who can write a book about children with sufficient skill, charm, simplicity, and significance to make it acceptable to both young and old. Mrs. Burnett is one of the few thus gifted.”—The New York Times