Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 90 votes)
5 stars
29(32%)
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29(32%)
3 stars
32(36%)
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90 reviews
April 17,2025
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Openlibrary.org.

Lovely book. Wonderful information about the setting of the classic novel... perfect companion to it, or even a good history book on its own. The recipes, eh, well, I'll never make anything so plain but also heavy in refined carbs as the majority of them... but there are some Indian recipes that look good! I am reminded of cucumber tea sandwiches... I remember them from childhood in Wisconsin, with Miracle Whip dressing instead of butter, though.

Another excellent companion to the novel is Inside the Secret Garden: A Treasury of Crafts, Recipes, and Activities, which is also avl. on Open Library.
April 17,2025
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I loved this cookbook. Even though it is written for children, I learned a lot about the reality of food for those less fortunate in Victorian England. I loved all the baked goods, even though I do not use dairy, eggs, fat or white flour in my baking.
April 17,2025
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An extremely well-done, thoughtfully presented, cookbook. More than a cookbook, it’s also contains short history lessons along with a smattering of British culture during the time period of which this story takes place... Victorian Era. This book is one of those few that can be enjoyed by both child and parent (or guardian, etc.). Would make a wonderful addition on the shelves of any public library. Would make a terrific library program where young girls and boys could experience what life was like for children a long time ago. A wonderful way to bring the characters in this book to life!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for my volunteer review.
April 17,2025
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8/55 books read in 2020.
Provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the perfect gift for someone who loves The Secret Garden.
All of the recipes are quintessentially British, ranging from staples to keep the working-class fed and full to dishes inspired by the British colonies and adapted for the elites in England.
Mixed in with the recipes are little snippets from the book and small paragraphs about life on a big household at the time of the book.

This cookbook is fun and charming, filled with lovely Yorkshire recipes.
However, I do think this wouldn't be a very interesting book for anyone who doesn't love The Secret Garden, unless you are looking for a good Yorkshire cookbook of course ;)
April 17,2025
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The Secret Garden Cookbook, Newly Revised Edition Inspiring Recipes from the Magical World of Frances Hodgson Burnett's The Secret Garden by Amy Cotler is a wonderful treat for those who loved the Secret Garden. I had always wondered what was in some of the foods that Mary, Colin and Dickon's ate. Now through a very well researched book Ms. Cotler explains many of the dishes created in the Manor and in the cottages. I love the photos and the lengthy explanations of certain English food and customs. The book also describes certain hierarchy with relation to those who prepared and grew food. It is a very interesting read and the vast majority of the recipes are on my list to try. Well Done.

I would like to thank the author, Quarto Publishing Group – Harvard Common Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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