Now, if you are familiar with my blog, you will remember that I previously posted on this novel, waxing lyrical about Inga Moore's illustrated edition of The Secret Garden, but I know that you will forgive such repetition just this once, when you cast your eye over the beautiful illustrations that accompany this enduring text.
At once, you will recognise the stylized artwork of Lauren Child, she of 'Charlie and Lola' picture book fame. And what a wonderful job she has done with Hodgson Burnett's classic tale of the spoilt little girl from India, who, with the help of Dickon and a friendly robin redbreast, comes to discover the value of friendship and family in the cold, unlikely environs of the Yorkshire moors.
Just look at the very first page of the book- there is a cutaway door, that opens onto the following page, revealing the title of the book. How clever and even thrilling to discover a secret door of one's very own just inside the book cover.
There is something ever so satisfying about seeing these modern illustrations alongside this classic Edwardian tale, where little girls wear white petticoats and black laced-up ankle-boots. They bring a freshness to the book, that my young daughter (and I) find very appealing.
But, let me be clear, this book is a true luxury item, and in my opinion is not meant for sticky fingers and spilled breakfast cereal, but is more suited to an older, more appreciative reader. That said - you can always purchase an every day copy of the book, for younger readers, alongside this splendid copy, and reserve the latter for special days.
So, if you love books like I love books (which I suspect you do!) then treat yourself to this glorious edition of 'The Secret Garden'.
It was published in 2011, to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the original publication, and, as a fan of author Frances Hodgson Burnett, you owe it to her, and the little child inside of you, to purchase a sublime, hardback, cloth-bound copy of this, her most popular novel, while you still can.
By Michelle Burrowes
