Helen Greenwood

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is such a wonderful novel, it is a pity that the makers of this film were unable to recognise this and stick to the original story. Why were some of the characters completely omitted? What happened to Ben Weeatherstaff and Susan Sowerby, Dickin's mother, both of whom were so important in helping Mary discover the magic of the garden and the wonders of nature. And why oh why was it necessary to add a fire at the end of the film? I suppose it makes good drama but the book is SO much better. And if anyone hasn't yet read the story please do so - You are in for a treat. A pity the same cannot be said of the film. Very disappointing.