Ten inferential questions about "The Secret Garden," along with their answers:
1- Why is Mary Lennox initially described as a "sour little girl"?
Answer:
Mary is described this way because she has been spoiled and neglected for most of her life, and has never known the love and attention of her parents.
2-Why does Mary initially resent her new surroundings in England?
Answer:
Mary resents her new surroundings because they are unfamiliar and she is used to being waited on hand and foot by her servants in India.
3- Why does Colin initially believe that he is going to die soon?
Answer:
Colin believes he is going to die soon because his father has convinced him that he has the same hunchback that killed his mother.
4- Why is it significant that Mary and Colin both lost their mothers at a young age?
Answer:
Mary and Colin's shared experience of losing their mothers creates a bond between them and helps them to understand each other.
5- Why is the arrival of spring so important to the story?
Answer:
Spring represents a new beginning, a time of growth and renewal, and a symbol of the characters' transformation and healing.
6- Why does Mary decide to keep the secret garden a secret from everyone, including her uncle?
Answer:
Mary wants to keep the secret garden a secret because she wants to have something that is just hers and doesn't want anyone else to take it away from her.
7- Why does Mr. Craven initially avoid spending time with his son, Colin?
Answer:
Mr. Craven avoids spending time with Colin because he is reminded of his deceased wife when he sees Colin, and he cannot bear the pain of the memories.
8- Why does Dickon Sowerby have a special connection with animals?
Answer:
Dickon has a special connection with animals because he has grown up surrounded by them on his family's farm, and he has learned to communicate with them through gentle words and actions.
9- Why is it significant that the robin helps Mary find the key to the secret garden?
Answer:
The robin symbolizes the power of nature and its ability to guide and nurture the characters on their journey of transformation.
10- Why does the garden have such a profound effect on Mary, Colin, and Mr. Craven?
Answer:
The garden has a profound effect on the characters because it represents a source of hope, healing, and transformation that they never knew existed before. It also represents the power of nature to heal and inspire, and the magic of new beginnings.
Guide to review by Adrián Tovar, Step 9
