The Secret Garden on 81st Street

The Secret Garden on 81st Street by Ivy Noelle Weir is a modern retelling of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic The Secret Garden. Set in the heart of New York City, the story follows Mary Lennox, a young girl who, after the sudden death of her parents, is sent to live with her reclusive uncle. Unlike her tech-filled, solitary life in Silicon Valley, Mary's new home is gadget-free and starkly different from what she's used to. In this unfamiliar environment, she finds solace in an abandoned rooftop garden, a place that holds the key to healing.

As she befriends her anxious cousin, Colin, and a kind-hearted boy named Dickon, Mary discovers not only the power of the garden but also the importance of friendship, emotional healing, and self-discovery. Together, they work to restore the garden while Mary learns to process her grief, build meaningful relationships, and overcome the isolation she once relied on. This contemporary version of The Secret Garden beautifully weaves themes of growth, healing, and the transformative power of nature and friendship.