SuitabookThe Garden of Lost Secrets
A.M. Howell
- Reading
- Before reading, mention that wartime illness, possible bereavement and a slap occur. Afterwards, compare Clara’s guesses with what she learns, and invite your child to discuss whether the explanations and ending felt complete.
- Themes
- Wartime family separation: Clara is sent to Suffolk while her father recovers from a war-related lung injury; her brother is away fighting. The book presents this mainly as information or explanation.
- Secrets and trust: Clara wonders whether letters are being withheld, encounters a locked room and investigates suspicious activity. The book’s stance on this remains unclear.
- Bravery and determination: Clara tries to solve the mysteries and clear Will’s name, although her actions often lead to trouble. The book’s stance on this remains unclear.
- Worth knowing
- Some scenes may merit preparation: Clara receives a sharp slap, her father has lung problems after mustard-gas exposure, and the story includes fear about a possible death, secrecy, suspicion and bereavement.