1. Frances Hodgson Burnett was so fond of happy endings that she nicknamed herself "Mrs. Romantick." She held the belief that reality could be transformed through positive thinking. How do positive or negative thoughts influence the lives of Mary, Colin, Dickon, and Mr. Craven?

2. How does the garden serve as a metaphor for the initial states of Mary and Colin at the beginning of the novel? Track how this metaphor is developed and expanded throughout the story. In what ways does the garden's evolution into a nurturing, protective, and instructive mother figure alter this metaphor?

3. Some critics argue that the novel's focus shift from Mary to Colin ultimately makes it Colin's story. Others contend that the narrative centers on Mary's successful transformation of both herself and Colin. Whose story is The Secret Garden? Why?

4. When The Secret Garden was written, it was uncommon for children to be depicted negatively. More typical of the era is Burnett's Little Lord Fauntleroy, featuring a central character who is sweet and ideal. Compare the two works, focusing particularly on which characters experience the most growth and how they achieve it. Which central character is the most satisfying: Mary, Colin, or Little Lord? Why?

5. Although Dickon plays a significant role in the story, his character remains one-dimensional and does not undergo major changes. What is his role in the novel? Why is it important for him to stay a one-dimensional character?