Tom's Midnight Garden

by Philippa Pearce
Tom's Midnight Garden cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1636
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9780192758033
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press - Children
  • Published: 2011-10-20
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
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Tom's Midnight Garden tells the story of a young boy sent to stay with his aunt for the summer, expecting nothing but boredom. One night, he hears the grandfather clock strike thirteen and discovers a hidden garden that shouldn't exist. The garden is filled with children, but are they real or ghosts? As Tom explores this enchanting world, he begins to question the nature of time and reality, leading to a captivating tale of adventure and wonder. The book is a classic piece of children's literature that explores themes of friendship, time, and the magic of discovery. It's a timeless story that has captivated generations of readers with its imaginative setting and heartwarming narrative.

Reviews
BookTrust · 2023-01-01
poignant 4.50

The book is praised for its beautiful writing and poignant examination of relationships and growing up. It is described as a ghost story with a unique twist.

The reviewer highlights the beautiful writing and the poignant exploration of relationships and growing up in this classic novel. The story is described as a ghost story with a unique twist, making it a standout in children's literature. The reviewer appreciates the depth and emotional resonance of the narrative, which adds to its timeless appeal.

Quick quotes

    First published in 1958, this beautifully-written novel is a ghost story with a difference.

    A poignant examination of relationships, growing up and the passage...

    The depth and emotional resonance of the narrative add to its timeless appeal.

A Bookish Life Blog · 2016-04-03
fascinating 4.00

The book is described as fascinating, with magical time-travel moments that younger children will enjoy. The drama of being sent away from home adds to the story's appeal.

The reviewer finds the book to be fascinating, particularly for younger readers who will enjoy the magical time-travel elements. The drama of Tom being sent away from home adds a relatable layer to the story. The reviewer appreciates the blend of adventure and magic, making it a memorable read for children.

Quick quotes

    It is a fascinating book.

    For younger children, there is the simple drama of being sent away from home and the magical time-travel moments when Tom walks...

    The blend of adventure and magic makes it a memorable read.

The Guardian · 2014-02-09
captivating 4.50

The book is praised for its exploration of time and its exciting, mystical elements. The story is described as captivating and thought-provoking.

The reviewer highlights the book's unique take on time and its mystical undertones, making it a compelling read. They appreciate how the story weaves together excitement and deeper themes, creating a captivating narrative. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of time and its impact on the characters to be particularly engaging, making it a standout in children's literature.

Quick quotes

    Tom's Midnight Garden explores time and how it can be turned back.

    It is a very exciting book that has a hidden mystical presence.

    The story is a captivating blend of excitement and deeper themes.

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