What do you think?
Rate this book
Garden
'Garden is very charming with some lovely parallels ...' Sharon Sant - Author of The Sky Song trilogy
Inspired by the classic novel The Secret Garden, Jane Yates introduces us to a steampunk world of bio-domes, robots and mysteries. Eleven-year-old Aberdeen is so used to being by herself that all she has to fill her thoughts are stories of mighty dragons and grand castles. But Aberdeen's world is soon thrown into disarray however; her parents murdered.
Having no choice, Aberdeen is sent to live with her uncle back on Earth where her fascination into her new surroundings begin to take hold. It isn’t long before Aberdeen befriends three other children - Maisy, Peter and Lenard.
Oh, and there’s Frank too, Peter’s robot dog, who completes this special circle of friendship.
Garden is a journey of self-discovery, of trials and friendship. With adventure boundless, Jane Yates follows up her acclaimed Paradox Child trilogy with a new tale for young fans of steampunk and science fiction.
Inspired by the classic novel The Secret Garden, Jane Yates introduces us to a steampunk world of bio-domes, robots and mysteries. Eleven-year-old Aberdeen is so used to being by herself that all she has to fill her thoughts are stories of mighty dragons and grand castles. But Aberdeen's world is soon thrown into disarray however; her parents murdered.
Having no choice, Aberdeen is sent to live with her uncle back on Earth where her fascination into her new surroundings begin to take hold. It isn’t long before Aberdeen befriends three other children - Maisy, Peter and Lenard.
Oh, and there’s Frank too, Peter’s robot dog, who completes this special circle of friendship.
Garden is a journey of self-discovery, of trials and friendship. With adventure boundless, Jane Yates follows up her acclaimed Paradox Child trilogy with a new tale for young fans of steampunk and science fiction.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
2 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Jane Yates
7 books401 followersMy name is Jane Yates, and I’m an author, artist and a narrator. I live in the historical City of Oxford in the UK.
Because I am dyslexic I did not start writing until I was 50 years old. I started as a cartoonist, illustrating and writing about my Springer Spaniel Mandy for a local community paper in Oxford, The Leys News, sadly closed down now.
I worked for several years in the Pitt Rivers a Museum in Oxford, which directly inspired me to write my first three books, the Paradox Child series.
My other books are Octopus Pirate and Garden which is published by Autumn Orchard and is Amazon’s #1 Children's Steampunk Bestseller. Also In audio read by Actress Anna Parker-Naples.
After the death of my dog Mandy, I had problem’s sleeping and discovered that there was not enough support after the loss of a beloved pet. Also realising that my youngest daughter, Emily who was also grieving Mandy, who she had known for most of her life. I decided to make an audio. that would help other people who found themselves in the same situation.
It is called RELAX: Guided meditation to aid sleep, after the loss of a beloved dog. It has only been out a short time but is already receiving good reviews.
please message me if you have read my books i love to hear from my readers . TY jane
my art https://www.flickr.com/photos/6763658...
my books in Japan
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/e/B00D9KAK62
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeyates...
I have updated my #LinkedIn account. Check it out and make a connection
Because I am dyslexic I did not start writing until I was 50 years old. I started as a cartoonist, illustrating and writing about my Springer Spaniel Mandy for a local community paper in Oxford, The Leys News, sadly closed down now.
I worked for several years in the Pitt Rivers a Museum in Oxford, which directly inspired me to write my first three books, the Paradox Child series.
My other books are Octopus Pirate and Garden which is published by Autumn Orchard and is Amazon’s #1 Children's Steampunk Bestseller. Also In audio read by Actress Anna Parker-Naples.
After the death of my dog Mandy, I had problem’s sleeping and discovered that there was not enough support after the loss of a beloved pet. Also realising that my youngest daughter, Emily who was also grieving Mandy, who she had known for most of her life. I decided to make an audio. that would help other people who found themselves in the same situation.
It is called RELAX: Guided meditation to aid sleep, after the loss of a beloved dog. It has only been out a short time but is already receiving good reviews.
please message me if you have read my books i love to hear from my readers . TY jane
my art https://www.flickr.com/photos/6763658...
my books in Japan
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/e/B00D9KAK62
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeyates...
I have updated my #LinkedIn account. Check it out and make a connection
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 16, 2016
Garden by Jane Yates Five stars I received a free Beta .pdf of Garden by Jane Yates in exchange for a fair review.
This delightful story is lightly based on The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The storyline is modernized, no futurized, which made it an even more charming book.
Abderdeen's parents & entire ship's community were wiped out by a fast acting virus. She was the sole survivor & sent to a distant uncle's home on earth which was now covered by protective domes. If outside the dome a gas mask was necessary.
When there she begins to grow healthier & learns what it's like to feel true hunger. She's told she can go into all the gardens except one. “However there is one garden that you still won’t be able to go into and your uncle’s kept it locked up since the gamma ray hit.”
“Oh, why’s that?” Aberdeen asked. She was curious about the locked garden and was determined to find it. Being told she couldn’t go somewhere was the very seed she relished, planted into her imagination, where a scene evolving into a magical garden with the juiciest of fruits began to take root."
What grand adventures Aberdeen & her friends have ahead. Maisy, Peter & Lenard all became friends. There are puzzles & mysteries to discover in the house itself & in the secret garden.
Peter's discussion: “Physics has taught us that by simply looking at reality, we change it. We can create our own reality, from a subatomic level. With this machine, we are powerful enough to affect the behaviour of the atoms that are in us and around us.”
Lenard also grew healthier & wanted to surprise his father by how much better he was.
"Lenard took a sharp intake of breath. “I can’t believe I know something you guys don’t! Faug a bollag. It means ‘clear the way’. It’s our family motto; it’s written on the family crest,” he explained. “The poem you just read out explains this.”
I gave this book five stars. It was a pleasure to read a wholesome, feel-good book.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Garden-Jane-Yat...
This delightful story is lightly based on The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The storyline is modernized, no futurized, which made it an even more charming book.
Abderdeen's parents & entire ship's community were wiped out by a fast acting virus. She was the sole survivor & sent to a distant uncle's home on earth which was now covered by protective domes. If outside the dome a gas mask was necessary.
When there she begins to grow healthier & learns what it's like to feel true hunger. She's told she can go into all the gardens except one. “However there is one garden that you still won’t be able to go into and your uncle’s kept it locked up since the gamma ray hit.”
“Oh, why’s that?” Aberdeen asked. She was curious about the locked garden and was determined to find it. Being told she couldn’t go somewhere was the very seed she relished, planted into her imagination, where a scene evolving into a magical garden with the juiciest of fruits began to take root."
What grand adventures Aberdeen & her friends have ahead. Maisy, Peter & Lenard all became friends. There are puzzles & mysteries to discover in the house itself & in the secret garden.
Peter's discussion: “Physics has taught us that by simply looking at reality, we change it. We can create our own reality, from a subatomic level. With this machine, we are powerful enough to affect the behaviour of the atoms that are in us and around us.”
Lenard also grew healthier & wanted to surprise his father by how much better he was.
"Lenard took a sharp intake of breath. “I can’t believe I know something you guys don’t! Faug a bollag. It means ‘clear the way’. It’s our family motto; it’s written on the family crest,” he explained. “The poem you just read out explains this.”
I gave this book five stars. It was a pleasure to read a wholesome, feel-good book.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Garden-Jane-Yat...
February 22, 2015
This is probably the author's best effort to date. The novel follows young Aberdeen as her life aboard a futuristic spaceship comes to an abrupt end. Aberdeen has to leave everything she knows as she's packed off to go and live with a distant relation on a life-supporting atmosphere deprived Earth, bio-domes now the primary real estate.
Aberdeen begins the book as quite a difficult girl, she's grown up away from the influence of other children and was virtually dragged up by her personal robot. In a way, she's somewhat of a brat (although her circumstances don't allow you to hold that against her) but this is a book about self-development and personal growth, and, once Aberdeen makes it to Earth, her personal journey begins. And what an enjoyable and fun journey it is. Look out for the awesome robotic animals!
Aberdeen begins the book as quite a difficult girl, she's grown up away from the influence of other children and was virtually dragged up by her personal robot. In a way, she's somewhat of a brat (although her circumstances don't allow you to hold that against her) but this is a book about self-development and personal growth, and, once Aberdeen makes it to Earth, her personal journey begins. And what an enjoyable and fun journey it is. Look out for the awesome robotic animals!
November 8, 2015
It takes an utterly imaginative mind to come up with a story that puts together elements of steampunk, sci-fi and fantasy and not overwhelm the reader (‘til their heads explode). Inspired by the classic “The Secret Garden”, the author re-imagines a futuristic (parallel) world with bio-domes, robot nannies and robotic animals.
This is a personal journey of Aberdeen, who was transplanted to Earth after her parents were murdered. Together with new friends, Aberdeen stumbles upon a riddle that triggers the adventure of a lifetime.
The author’s excitement and enthusiasm resonate in her writing, which makes this an absolutely delightful read.
This is a personal journey of Aberdeen, who was transplanted to Earth after her parents were murdered. Together with new friends, Aberdeen stumbles upon a riddle that triggers the adventure of a lifetime.
The author’s excitement and enthusiasm resonate in her writing, which makes this an absolutely delightful read.
February 22, 2015
GARDEN: A BOOK REVIEW BY BOOK RAIDERS
First published for paperback 2015 by Autumn Orchard
Text copyright © Jane Yates
Author photograph © Jane Yates
Chapter Illustrations © Jane Yates
I have a great interest in sci-fi. I also enjoy stories that feature Steampunk style, so one can imagine how I feel about the latest book Garden by the talented author Jane Yates.
The main character is Aberdeen. She is a child that is from a family that has no time for her, and they all live on an enormous spaceship. Essentially, the poor girl is being raised by her personal robot. She lives isolated from other children, for her mother told her they were lower than her in social class and hygiene, so she viewed the other children as inferior.
Her private school Aberdeen attended sent her back because of her unruly behaviour. That action resulted in Aberdeen staying in her room a lot and exclusively interacted with her personal robot that did everything for her. It even dressed her. Her mother was a socialite and felt throwing parties and associating with her socially high friends was far more important than tending to her poor, neglected daughter Aberdeen.
Aberdeen’s entire life has been spent in outer space in a large ship that housed many people and provided their every need. However, the Earth below them was not doing well environmentally for its atmosphere, specifically the ozone layer, was destroyed by a supernova and life as anyone knew it ceased to exist. The world changed completely. People had to build enormous domed environments to sustain a safe world to live until the atmosphere of the earth was safe to breathe again.
Unfortunately, life for Aberdeen was about to change, for some lunatic on board the ship she lived on released a virus and it killed nearly all the people on the ship including Aberdeen’s parents. She finds herself living on earth with her only surviving relative her uncle who lives in a sprawling manor home under a domed environment on earth, for the atmosphere is not breathable just yet.
Aberdeen is a wonderful character. She is not only a long-suffering one; she grows as she journeys through the pages of this marvellous book. She arrived on earth’s soil, devoid of social skills, lacking in friends or even what having a friend felt like. She had no idea how to help herself much less anyone else. As we read through her world, we become entranced in how she starts to evolve into far more than the girl that arrived. She becomes happy, she makes friends, learns to depend on herself and most of all brings a type of light into everyone’s life she meets. You might say she encourages the light to grow.
The characters start out cold in the domed world her uncle lives in. Mrs Merryweather, the lady that is in charge of Aberdeen and runs the staff, is a woman with a heavy shadow about her. We see her rarely crack any smile or even hint at one. Then there is Maisy, a warm girl that is a servant in the house and takes to Aberdeen fast. She is sad as well under the oppression of Merryweather and the darkness that appears to engulf the home in general.
The saddest character is Aberdeen’s cousin Lenard. He was a shut away convinced of his death. His world was dark and desperate. This until he met Aberdeen and the events that followed drew him from his dark, shrouded world into the light. I would say Lenard’s transformation was on par with a metamorphosis and how he shed his cocoon of despair.
Another character that was quite transforming for Aberdeen was Peter, Maisy’s adopted brother. He was a genius with technology and quantum physics. The reader has a treat in one of this bright boy’s inventions. Peter creates his own robots of all kinds. One of his splendid creations is a mechanical dog by the name of Frank. This dog was a fantastic touch to add, it was a character I fell in love. Most of its characteristics reminded me of K-9 from the science fiction Doctor Who one of my favourite series.
At the risk of giving away the entire plot, I shall stop here. I would highly recommend this marvellous book. Author Jane Yates has written a wonderful story of self-growth, courage and learning how to love. I enjoyed reading this book, as I believe anyone who enjoys a story that shows the experience of the joy of what it feels like to be loved and develop friendships. Excellent write. Go and buy it! GARDEN
First published for paperback 2015 by Autumn Orchard
Text copyright © Jane Yates
Author photograph © Jane Yates
Chapter Illustrations © Jane Yates
I have a great interest in sci-fi. I also enjoy stories that feature Steampunk style, so one can imagine how I feel about the latest book Garden by the talented author Jane Yates.
The main character is Aberdeen. She is a child that is from a family that has no time for her, and they all live on an enormous spaceship. Essentially, the poor girl is being raised by her personal robot. She lives isolated from other children, for her mother told her they were lower than her in social class and hygiene, so she viewed the other children as inferior.
Her private school Aberdeen attended sent her back because of her unruly behaviour. That action resulted in Aberdeen staying in her room a lot and exclusively interacted with her personal robot that did everything for her. It even dressed her. Her mother was a socialite and felt throwing parties and associating with her socially high friends was far more important than tending to her poor, neglected daughter Aberdeen.
Aberdeen’s entire life has been spent in outer space in a large ship that housed many people and provided their every need. However, the Earth below them was not doing well environmentally for its atmosphere, specifically the ozone layer, was destroyed by a supernova and life as anyone knew it ceased to exist. The world changed completely. People had to build enormous domed environments to sustain a safe world to live until the atmosphere of the earth was safe to breathe again.
Unfortunately, life for Aberdeen was about to change, for some lunatic on board the ship she lived on released a virus and it killed nearly all the people on the ship including Aberdeen’s parents. She finds herself living on earth with her only surviving relative her uncle who lives in a sprawling manor home under a domed environment on earth, for the atmosphere is not breathable just yet.
Aberdeen is a wonderful character. She is not only a long-suffering one; she grows as she journeys through the pages of this marvellous book. She arrived on earth’s soil, devoid of social skills, lacking in friends or even what having a friend felt like. She had no idea how to help herself much less anyone else. As we read through her world, we become entranced in how she starts to evolve into far more than the girl that arrived. She becomes happy, she makes friends, learns to depend on herself and most of all brings a type of light into everyone’s life she meets. You might say she encourages the light to grow.
The characters start out cold in the domed world her uncle lives in. Mrs Merryweather, the lady that is in charge of Aberdeen and runs the staff, is a woman with a heavy shadow about her. We see her rarely crack any smile or even hint at one. Then there is Maisy, a warm girl that is a servant in the house and takes to Aberdeen fast. She is sad as well under the oppression of Merryweather and the darkness that appears to engulf the home in general.
The saddest character is Aberdeen’s cousin Lenard. He was a shut away convinced of his death. His world was dark and desperate. This until he met Aberdeen and the events that followed drew him from his dark, shrouded world into the light. I would say Lenard’s transformation was on par with a metamorphosis and how he shed his cocoon of despair.
Another character that was quite transforming for Aberdeen was Peter, Maisy’s adopted brother. He was a genius with technology and quantum physics. The reader has a treat in one of this bright boy’s inventions. Peter creates his own robots of all kinds. One of his splendid creations is a mechanical dog by the name of Frank. This dog was a fantastic touch to add, it was a character I fell in love. Most of its characteristics reminded me of K-9 from the science fiction Doctor Who one of my favourite series.
At the risk of giving away the entire plot, I shall stop here. I would highly recommend this marvellous book. Author Jane Yates has written a wonderful story of self-growth, courage and learning how to love. I enjoyed reading this book, as I believe anyone who enjoys a story that shows the experience of the joy of what it feels like to be loved and develop friendships. Excellent write. Go and buy it! GARDEN
February 28, 2015
I was surprised at how much I had in common with the main character, Aberdeen- we both have blue to our hair, we both own a snake, we both love dragons, and we're both pretty terrified of flying. I'm about 90% sure this girl is my narrative twin, haha. I loved it.
Garden was a dazzling retelling of one of my beloved children's books, and I felt Jane did a fantastic job of incorporating elements of science-fiction and steampunk into the story.
As a very-closet lover of steampunk, Garden was the first book I have read within this genre and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think the whole genre is new, revolutionary and fresh; it adds a very much wanted spin to plain science-fiction novels.
Throughout reading, I was constantly amazed by the emotions I kept feeling. I wasn't expecting to laugh as much as I did, or feel so much- well, what's the opposite of Schadenfreude? Schadenfreude is finding joy from other people's misfortune, but with Garden, I was finding joy from Aberdeen's joy. Anti-Schadenfreude, perhaps?
Nevertheless, it made me incredibly happy. I particularly enjoyed the little crush Aberdeen seemed to develop upon Peter, it just made me go 'awww' repeatedly.
One thing I loved was Aberdeen's reasoning behind her self-imposed isolation: 'The environment was alien to her and befriending some stranger wouldn't change that.' A lot of people usually try to find themselves at ease by associating with large groups, but I don't think that would be calming at all in Aberdeen's situation. I was glad she stayed by herself.
But then of course, she met Maisy, and I was very glad- Maisy was a well-rounded character, who really opened up Aberdeen's childish, snappy and bratty personality to a lovely, nice little girl. Not only that, but Maisy (along with her brother Peter) are portrayed as dyslexic, which added a very heart warming touch to the story- it was refreshing to see Maisy so proud of her dyslexia, and able to talk about it without shame or sadness.
Maisy's story telling was fantastic, as well. Especially her first tale, the Dragon Story, made me snort and giggle with the ending. Dragon Story is not you're typical fairy tale, which was brilliant, the sense of humour within this book is really something.
The aspects of planet Earth and the bio-domes was revitalising, giving the story both supernatural and science-fiction elements, presenting the world in near-dystopia.
Aberdeen, once she came out of her shell and became the nice little girl, was very amusing to read. She cared deeply for her new found friends, and her bout of mischievousness was interesting.
All of the characters within Garden had their own quirks; Mrs Merryweather, for example, was strict and horrid on the surface, but as the story continued she warmed up and even began smiling at the children.
I particularly loved the ring, it's description was very beautiful. As was all of the robotic guardians and keepers, in particular Aaron, the garden bird. Though I think my favourite was by far the orrery.
For me, Garden was a fantastic read, and I'm so glad I got the opportunity to do so. Thank you very much, Jane!
My favourite quote;
"And at that very moment, Aberdeen felt as if a soft warm glow of energy moved from the four sculptures in the garden and up towards the sky and out across the world, spreading into the furthest, darkest corners, giving every sick child hope and the will to live magically in their hearts."
Star Rating: 5/5
---
For more reviews like this, check out my blog:
http://thebookcarousel.blogspot.co.uk
Garden was a dazzling retelling of one of my beloved children's books, and I felt Jane did a fantastic job of incorporating elements of science-fiction and steampunk into the story.
As a very-closet lover of steampunk, Garden was the first book I have read within this genre and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think the whole genre is new, revolutionary and fresh; it adds a very much wanted spin to plain science-fiction novels.
Throughout reading, I was constantly amazed by the emotions I kept feeling. I wasn't expecting to laugh as much as I did, or feel so much- well, what's the opposite of Schadenfreude? Schadenfreude is finding joy from other people's misfortune, but with Garden, I was finding joy from Aberdeen's joy. Anti-Schadenfreude, perhaps?
Nevertheless, it made me incredibly happy. I particularly enjoyed the little crush Aberdeen seemed to develop upon Peter, it just made me go 'awww' repeatedly.
One thing I loved was Aberdeen's reasoning behind her self-imposed isolation: 'The environment was alien to her and befriending some stranger wouldn't change that.' A lot of people usually try to find themselves at ease by associating with large groups, but I don't think that would be calming at all in Aberdeen's situation. I was glad she stayed by herself.
But then of course, she met Maisy, and I was very glad- Maisy was a well-rounded character, who really opened up Aberdeen's childish, snappy and bratty personality to a lovely, nice little girl. Not only that, but Maisy (along with her brother Peter) are portrayed as dyslexic, which added a very heart warming touch to the story- it was refreshing to see Maisy so proud of her dyslexia, and able to talk about it without shame or sadness.
Maisy's story telling was fantastic, as well. Especially her first tale, the Dragon Story, made me snort and giggle with the ending. Dragon Story is not you're typical fairy tale, which was brilliant, the sense of humour within this book is really something.
The aspects of planet Earth and the bio-domes was revitalising, giving the story both supernatural and science-fiction elements, presenting the world in near-dystopia.
Aberdeen, once she came out of her shell and became the nice little girl, was very amusing to read. She cared deeply for her new found friends, and her bout of mischievousness was interesting.
All of the characters within Garden had their own quirks; Mrs Merryweather, for example, was strict and horrid on the surface, but as the story continued she warmed up and even began smiling at the children.
I particularly loved the ring, it's description was very beautiful. As was all of the robotic guardians and keepers, in particular Aaron, the garden bird. Though I think my favourite was by far the orrery.
For me, Garden was a fantastic read, and I'm so glad I got the opportunity to do so. Thank you very much, Jane!
My favourite quote;
"And at that very moment, Aberdeen felt as if a soft warm glow of energy moved from the four sculptures in the garden and up towards the sky and out across the world, spreading into the furthest, darkest corners, giving every sick child hope and the will to live magically in their hearts."
Star Rating: 5/5
---
For more reviews like this, check out my blog:
http://thebookcarousel.blogspot.co.uk
November 27, 2016
Review for Garden by Jane Yates:
Harness your imagination, grab your tissues, and dive into "Garden," a charming Steampunk novel by Jane Yates.
From its first scene, the story's protagonist, Aberdeen Gale, drew me into her unique world of elegant spaceships, Guardian robots, and colorful characters. Aberdeen lives on a spaceship where children are "heard, but not seen". Ignored by her parents and rejected by her peers, Aberdeen leads an isolated existence.
However, when a deadly virus unexpectedly strikes Aberdeen's spaceship, killing her parents and destroying the Guardian robot that raised her, her life is forever changed.
She is sent to Earth to live with her only surviving relative, a grieving uncle with a tragic past.
Angry, lost, and confused, Aberdeen struggles to adjust to life in her new home. With only her pet metal snake to comfort her, Aberdeen passes her days in despair as she fights to miss the parents she never really knew and the dependent existence to which she was accustomed.
Enter Maisy, Aberdeen's uncle's jovial and patient housekeeper. Maisy treats Aberdeen with kindness, beguiling her with the fascinating tales she creates. Maisy also provides Aberdeen reprieve from her loneliness and the disapproving eye of Mrs. Merriweather, her uncle's head housekeeper.
Over time, Aberdeen learns to accept Maisy's unconditional affection. In the process, the two form a deep and lasting friendship. Maisy introduces Aberdeen to Maisy's brother, Peter, a quick-witted teenager with a knack for numbers. These three embark on a journey of discovery through Aberdeen's new home. In the process, they find family, friendship, and adventure.
I found the characters in Garden engaging, relatable, and fascinating. In particular, I enjoyed witnessing Aberdeen's transformation from an angry and spoiled youngster to a caring and independent young lady.
While Garden is geared toward third to seventh graders, I, a 25-year-old adult, found the story fun, exciting, and relatable. Additionally, I enjoy the deft hand with which Jane handles the difficult topics of death, disability, and difference. Several of the main characters contend with one or all of these issues. The author treats each of the characters with respect, refusing to resort to stereotypes.
Furthermore, I appreciated the author's sense of imagery. She does not simply tell the reader what the characters are experiencing, she shows the reader. She transports the reader from this world into the world of the book. In the process, Jane brings an intergalactic tale down to earth.
Garden is a great book for any reader who enjoys a solid sci-fi story with heart, soul, and a little bit of magic.
Nicole Saunders, author of Disposable
Harness your imagination, grab your tissues, and dive into "Garden," a charming Steampunk novel by Jane Yates.
From its first scene, the story's protagonist, Aberdeen Gale, drew me into her unique world of elegant spaceships, Guardian robots, and colorful characters. Aberdeen lives on a spaceship where children are "heard, but not seen". Ignored by her parents and rejected by her peers, Aberdeen leads an isolated existence.
However, when a deadly virus unexpectedly strikes Aberdeen's spaceship, killing her parents and destroying the Guardian robot that raised her, her life is forever changed.
She is sent to Earth to live with her only surviving relative, a grieving uncle with a tragic past.
Angry, lost, and confused, Aberdeen struggles to adjust to life in her new home. With only her pet metal snake to comfort her, Aberdeen passes her days in despair as she fights to miss the parents she never really knew and the dependent existence to which she was accustomed.
Enter Maisy, Aberdeen's uncle's jovial and patient housekeeper. Maisy treats Aberdeen with kindness, beguiling her with the fascinating tales she creates. Maisy also provides Aberdeen reprieve from her loneliness and the disapproving eye of Mrs. Merriweather, her uncle's head housekeeper.
Over time, Aberdeen learns to accept Maisy's unconditional affection. In the process, the two form a deep and lasting friendship. Maisy introduces Aberdeen to Maisy's brother, Peter, a quick-witted teenager with a knack for numbers. These three embark on a journey of discovery through Aberdeen's new home. In the process, they find family, friendship, and adventure.
I found the characters in Garden engaging, relatable, and fascinating. In particular, I enjoyed witnessing Aberdeen's transformation from an angry and spoiled youngster to a caring and independent young lady.
While Garden is geared toward third to seventh graders, I, a 25-year-old adult, found the story fun, exciting, and relatable. Additionally, I enjoy the deft hand with which Jane handles the difficult topics of death, disability, and difference. Several of the main characters contend with one or all of these issues. The author treats each of the characters with respect, refusing to resort to stereotypes.
Furthermore, I appreciated the author's sense of imagery. She does not simply tell the reader what the characters are experiencing, she shows the reader. She transports the reader from this world into the world of the book. In the process, Jane brings an intergalactic tale down to earth.
Garden is a great book for any reader who enjoys a solid sci-fi story with heart, soul, and a little bit of magic.
Nicole Saunders, author of Disposable
February 27, 2015
This book was a delight and a treat. I did not intend to read it in one sitting, but found that I could not put it down. I have loved the story of The Secret Garden ever since seeing the 1987 film and then later after reading the book. There a spirit and warmth in The Secret Garden that J. Yates has captured perfectly while adding a unique spin of her own. If I could somehow move into this story, without terrifying the characters by knowing so much about them already, I would. The only thing I have left to say is that if you are still reading this review, you are reading the wrong thing. Go read Garden.
October 10, 2016
Garden made me smile from start to finish. It reminded me of my love for Enid Blyton’s stories of old. Great for children and adults alike, Garden is a tale of one one girl's search for friendship, a place to belong and fit in.
Aberdeen is a spunky young madam who is used to having her own way, but as the story progresses, we get to see the real Aberdeen come to the fore - a person who has something to offer.
Garden is a quick read and a great building block for children in their progression from child's fiction to YA. Garden is simply the perfect introduction to the steampunk genre.
Aberdeen is a spunky young madam who is used to having her own way, but as the story progresses, we get to see the real Aberdeen come to the fore - a person who has something to offer.
Garden is a quick read and a great building block for children in their progression from child's fiction to YA. Garden is simply the perfect introduction to the steampunk genre.
March 10, 2015
Garden is a lovely story full of simple pleasures like marmalade on toast and looking at daisies! Jane’s writing is straightforward and has an honesty of expression rarely seen in literature, which is an utter delight to read. It is a very accessible book, great for anyone with a younger reading age and is especially wonderful for any dyslexics as two of the characters Maisy and Peter are themselves dyslexic and illustrate very nicely the wonderful positives dyslexia brings! The story itself is joyous and kind, with lots of intrigue and excitement, I would recommend this book to anyone!
February 8, 2016
Won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. This is a really charming little book based on 'The Secret Garden', but with a some new elements, many of them of a steampunk nature. If you know and love the story, you'll enjoy this fresh version - if not, maybe give this a go, and then the original later!
March 14, 2015
A delightful retelling of the classic Secret Garden tale; only this one is Steam Punk, and Aberdeen,our child protagonist, does not come from the exotic far-flung corners of the globe, but rather,she is from the empty blackness of Space.
Upon the death of her parents, Aberdeen is transported from her space-station home back to an Earth recovering from the deadly effects of destructive gamma rays, which have made the air toxic. Many people were killed or suffered from radiation poisoning. Aberdeen returns to a world made cold and uninviting. As in the Secret Garden, Aberdeen's Uncle remains distant and absent for long periods of time. Aberdeen meets Maisy the ever-helpful maid. She also meets Mrs Merryweather, the overbearing housekeeper. There is a robot master-locksmith who can open any door, and there are many doors in her Uncles big mansion. To kill time, Aberdeen wanders the many halls of the building, up and down staircases, finding all sorts of curios things, and of course the boy Lenard, her sick and seemingly crippled cousin.
This may be a blighted world,but Yates instills hope for a brighter future in this her dystopian pastiche of the classic tale. Robotic gardeners tend to plants, and work tirelessly to erect and extend bio-domes over the Uncle's estate in order to keep out the toxic air. We see an angry and spoiled Aberdeen blossom along with the a new-found Spring.
Garden has it all: secret codes, secret tunnels and rooms, and the secret garden. There are machines that run on steam, whirling cogs, and robotic dogs and birds.
I enjoyed Garden and recommend it to children and adults alike.
Upon the death of her parents, Aberdeen is transported from her space-station home back to an Earth recovering from the deadly effects of destructive gamma rays, which have made the air toxic. Many people were killed or suffered from radiation poisoning. Aberdeen returns to a world made cold and uninviting. As in the Secret Garden, Aberdeen's Uncle remains distant and absent for long periods of time. Aberdeen meets Maisy the ever-helpful maid. She also meets Mrs Merryweather, the overbearing housekeeper. There is a robot master-locksmith who can open any door, and there are many doors in her Uncles big mansion. To kill time, Aberdeen wanders the many halls of the building, up and down staircases, finding all sorts of curios things, and of course the boy Lenard, her sick and seemingly crippled cousin.
This may be a blighted world,but Yates instills hope for a brighter future in this her dystopian pastiche of the classic tale. Robotic gardeners tend to plants, and work tirelessly to erect and extend bio-domes over the Uncle's estate in order to keep out the toxic air. We see an angry and spoiled Aberdeen blossom along with the a new-found Spring.
Garden has it all: secret codes, secret tunnels and rooms, and the secret garden. There are machines that run on steam, whirling cogs, and robotic dogs and birds.
I enjoyed Garden and recommend it to children and adults alike.
February 29, 2016
This book is a steam punk update of the secret garden. I haven't read the secret garden since I was a kid. It was nice to revisit some of the same themes.
Aberdeen lives on a spaceship. For the most part her only companion is her Nanny droid as her father is busy working and her mother thinks children shouldn't be seen or heard. After her parents are murdered Aberdeen is sent to Earth to live with an Uncle whom she never knew existed. Earth's atmosphere is no longer safe and Aberdeen is introduced to world of gas masks and bio-domes.
Soon Aberdeen learns to interact with others and makes friends. The four friends have many adventures in the secret garden and uncover an age old mystery once protected by Aberdeen's grandfather.
In the beginning Aberdeen is a bit of a spoiled brat. It was nice to see her change and grow as she explored the garden and gained friends. The book was a quick, enjoyable read.
Aberdeen lives on a spaceship. For the most part her only companion is her Nanny droid as her father is busy working and her mother thinks children shouldn't be seen or heard. After her parents are murdered Aberdeen is sent to Earth to live with an Uncle whom she never knew existed. Earth's atmosphere is no longer safe and Aberdeen is introduced to world of gas masks and bio-domes.
Soon Aberdeen learns to interact with others and makes friends. The four friends have many adventures in the secret garden and uncover an age old mystery once protected by Aberdeen's grandfather.
In the beginning Aberdeen is a bit of a spoiled brat. It was nice to see her change and grow as she explored the garden and gained friends. The book was a quick, enjoyable read.
May 14, 2015
I loved so much about this book. It was spellbinding and charming. I came to love all of the characters and how their individual personalities meshed together. It is a lose re-writing of an old classic, "Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
The garden is a magical place of growth and healing. The characters not only grow plants and flowers, they grow in love and respect for one another.
"Garden" also has an air of mystery and several unique stories within. I love the evenings with Maisy and the Chapter Machine. Day by day, I looked forward to it just as Aberdeen did. And toast, and marmalade ... and let's not forget the strawberry jelly.
Whether you are young or just young at heart, you will want to read of this amazing author. She overcomes her dyslexia to weave us this wonderful tale with a bit of steampunk and a lot of heart. I look forward to reading much, much more.
The garden is a magical place of growth and healing. The characters not only grow plants and flowers, they grow in love and respect for one another.
"Garden" also has an air of mystery and several unique stories within. I love the evenings with Maisy and the Chapter Machine. Day by day, I looked forward to it just as Aberdeen did. And toast, and marmalade ... and let's not forget the strawberry jelly.
Whether you are young or just young at heart, you will want to read of this amazing author. She overcomes her dyslexia to weave us this wonderful tale with a bit of steampunk and a lot of heart. I look forward to reading much, much more.
June 2, 2015
Garden by Jane Yates is a delight to read. After the death of her parents, 11-year-old Aberdeen goes to live with an uncle she never knew she had. There, she encounters secret passageways, eerie sobbing, strange goings-on, secret codes, and mysteries to solve.
Alone, except for her pet robotic worm, Aberdeen befriends a mechanical bird, who then shows her a secret garden. Aberdeen befriends Maisy, the help, and her brother Peter. Together, the three tend the secret garden.
When Aberdeen encounters her cousin Lenard, he joins the group of young adventures and helps solve some of the mysteries surrounding the secret garden and home.
This story about friendship, keeping secrets, and adventure should delight adults as well as young adults. Fun read.
Alone, except for her pet robotic worm, Aberdeen befriends a mechanical bird, who then shows her a secret garden. Aberdeen befriends Maisy, the help, and her brother Peter. Together, the three tend the secret garden.
When Aberdeen encounters her cousin Lenard, he joins the group of young adventures and helps solve some of the mysteries surrounding the secret garden and home.
This story about friendship, keeping secrets, and adventure should delight adults as well as young adults. Fun read.
February 12, 2015
This is an absolutely lovely story with a really intriguing mystery that pulled me in from the beginning. I couldn’t wait to find out what secrets were hiding in the house and garden. It was hard to put down by the end and I was sad to finish it. It has a real Enid Blyton feel about it, and as someone who grew up reading Enid Blyton, that is something very hard to replicate but Jane Yates made me feel like I was young again!
I loved the side characters, the robots and the clockwork bird, Maisy, Peter, and Lenard, and even Mrs Merryweather!
Highly recommended read, I thought it was brilliant with a real charm to it!
I loved the side characters, the robots and the clockwork bird, Maisy, Peter, and Lenard, and even Mrs Merryweather!
Highly recommended read, I thought it was brilliant with a real charm to it!
September 3, 2015
Fascinating retelling of the secret garden
What I liked most about this book was the modern twist to an old classic. Jane Yates really told this story in a creative way with a mechanical bird and a robot who is able to help the characters decipher information. Aberdeen starts out in the story as a spoiled girl but her hardships and the friends she meets transforms her into the hero of the story. I love this story for so many reasons; especially it's magical qualities. Kudos to Jane Yates for making an old classic into a new classic.
What I liked most about this book was the modern twist to an old classic. Jane Yates really told this story in a creative way with a mechanical bird and a robot who is able to help the characters decipher information. Aberdeen starts out in the story as a spoiled girl but her hardships and the friends she meets transforms her into the hero of the story. I love this story for so many reasons; especially it's magical qualities. Kudos to Jane Yates for making an old classic into a new classic.
April 10, 2017
A steampunk homage to the classic novel, The Secret Garden. This is a book which is much beloved by young girls everywhere I have gathered. To the older, male reader, this is a tame yet entertaining insight into Y/A literature fused with all the charming steampunk gadgets and post-apocalyptic dystopian charm of a Lovecraft in touch with some metaphorical inner child. In other words, the literary equivalent of a chick flick with some gear-head appeal. The characters are endearing, although some take a little time to grow on you. Taken in its entirety, it is an entertaining read with levels of appreciation for every age and gender. Totally appropriate family reading with healthy doses of humor I found quite relaxing to get lost in.
October 11, 2021
This book is a re-imagination of the children's classic 'The Secret Garden' and sees a modern, steampunk style adaptation of the story which sees a young girl named Aberdeen who has been living on a futuristic spaceship and loving her life but that is suddenly thrown into disarray when her parents are murdered and she if forced to return to an Earth that is very different from our current day Earth. This book is beautifully written and has a great flow to the story and an excellent character development throughout as we see Aberdeen need to grow and adapt to her new situation she finds herself in. This is a really well thought out and delivered story that I found really worked and I recommend to those looking to dip their toe into steampunk.
March 29, 2015
Easy to read and translate
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
February 15, 2015
Easy to read and translate
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
February 25, 2015
Easy to read and translate
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
英語を勉強中の人に最適。内容紹介
Ideal for people who are studying. English
March 6, 2017
I really liked "The Secret Garden" so I was excited to read this future take on the same story. Unfortunately, it was dull. Not enough of anything different to keep it interesting for me. Besides some robots the story was the same as the original.
January 31, 2017
I received this free from the Author in the form of an eBook. Raised in a spaceship Aberdeen is brought to earth to live with an uncle she never knew she had when a virus destroys her family.
This book is an easy read for the students, giving enough mystery and excitement to keep them interested.
This book is an easy read for the students, giving enough mystery and excitement to keep them interested.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews