The Theme of Growth and Change

Explores how all the main characters—Mary, Colin, Mr. Craven, Ben—undergo significant growth and change through the story.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Mary's Physical Growth

Mary's Physical Growth From Thin to Healthy Mary arrives thin and yellow. She gains weight, color, and strength. Her physical transformation is visible. From Sour to Happy Her expression changes. She smiles and laughs. Her sourness is replaced by joy. A New Person By the end, Mary is almost unrecognizable. She has grown into a healthy, pretty child. Growth is both physical and emotional.

Colin's Transformation

Colin's Transformation From Invalid to Athlete Colin goes from bedridden to running. His body changes completely. He becomes strong and active. From Tyrant to Friend He learns to be kind and considerate. He stops ordering people around. His personality matures. A New Identity Colin no longer sees himself as dying. He sees himself as a boy who will live forever. His identity is reborn.

Mr. Craven's Emotional Growth

Mr. Craven's Emotional Growth From Grief to Acceptance Mr. Craven spends ten years in grief. He finally accepts his loss and moves on. He learns to love again. From Absent to Present He returns to Misselthwaite and embraces his son. He becomes a real father. His growth is emotional and relational. A New Lease on Life Mr. Craven is "coming alive" again. The garden and his son have healed him. He is a changed man.

Ben Weatherstaff's Softening

Ben Weatherstaff's Softening From Surly to Tender Ben begins as a grumpy old man. He ends up crying with joy. His heart has softened. From Alone to Included Ben was lonely. Now he is part of the children's circle. He has a purpose and a family. Growth in Old Age Even an old man can change. Ben's growth shows that it is never too late to open your heart.

over the course of the story

over the course of the story

over the ten years and the final scenes

over the course of the story