Mandy (Julie Andrews Collection)
#1 of 17 in Julie Andrews Collection Series
on Goodreads (13,283)
What’s inside...
For ten-year-old Mandy, the old stone orphanage was the only home she remembered. Matron Bridie was kind to her, but there were thirty children to look after, and sometimes Mandy felt there was something missing. One day Mandy climbed over the high orphanage wall and found a tiny, deserted cottage in the woods. Here at last was her very own home. All through the spring, summer, and fall, Mandy worked to make it truly hers. Sometimes she 'borrowed' things she needed from the orphanage. Sometimes, to guard her secret, she even lied. Then one stormy night at the cottage, Mandy got sick, and no one could find her—except a special friend she didn't know she had.
Discussion points
How did Mandy's garden make her feel, and why do you think gardens are important?
What qualities make Mandy a good friend? Can you think of a time you helped a friend like she did?
Mandy faces many challenges in the book. Which challenge was the toughest for her, and how did she overcome it?
How do the different characters in the book show kindness, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe Mandy's emotions at different parts of the story. Discuss similar feelings they may have experienced.
Create a space during your reading time where it's comfortable to share personal thoughts and connect them to Mandy's experiences.
Ask your child to draw their ideal secret garden and discuss what makes it special to them, linking it back to how Mandy felt about her garden.
After reading, encourage your child to think of ways they can show kindness to their friends and family, inspired by Mandy’s actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-reliance
Explanation: Mandy, a young orphan, ventures to create a place of her own by cleaning up an abandoned cottage. This demonstrates her ability to take initiative and rely on her own abilities to create something meaningful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to undertake projects on their own, understanding that their efforts can lead to significant personal achievements.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, Mandy faces various challenges, including physical hurdles and emotional setbacks. Her determination to overcome these obstacles highlights the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that persisting through difficulties, regardless of obstacles, is crucial to achieving one's goals.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Mandy forms a friendship with a neighbor's cousin which helps her cope with her loneliness and challenges. This relationship emphasizes the importance of support and companionship.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of forming and maintaining friendships, understanding that having supportive relationships can provide comfort and assistance in times of need.
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: By cleaning up and restoring the abandoned cottage, Mandy shows a great respect for her surroundings, demonstrating environmental responsibility.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take care of their environment, promoting activities like recycling, cleanup drives, or even gardening.