English Summary/英文概要： Mia learns to love nature when she discovers a door to an abandoned garden in her uncle’s house in this modern retelling of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic The Secret Garden.

Spoilt rich-kid Mia’s world is turned upside-down when she is orphaned and whisked away to Mis Tor Manor on the edge of the moor to live with her uncle and cousin Christopher. Mia is appalled to find herself in the remote countryside, in a freezing, crumbling manor. Grieving and missing her old life, she takes an instant dislike to Christopher, who never leaves his bedroom due to illness.

Yet little by little, Mia starts to discover the beauty of this wintry world, and befriends local boy Daniel, who loves animals and teaches her how to ride a pony. One day she discovers a hidden door, covered in brambles and ivy, which leads to a walled garden ... A special, secret place which needs someone’s care to bring it to life once again so nature can flourish.

Awards/获奖情况： • The centenary of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s death falls on 29th October 2024.

• Lightning Mary was winner of the middle grade STEAM Book Prize and endorsed by the Stemettes.

• Lightning Mary has sold more than 30,000 copies in the UK.

• Praise for Lightning Mary: ‘An intriguing insight into a fascinating figure from history: Mary is a bold, brilliant and truly inspiring heroine’ Katherine Woodfine

• ‘Mary is a fascinating character and in Simmons’ hands, she rips up the page with her determination and strength’ Irish Independent

• ‘A brilliant read’ BookTrust