Jonathan Auxier's The Night Gardener impresses with its atmospheric storytelling, engaging characters, and detailed setting. Reviewers praise its ability to blend mystery with a Victorian-era ghost story vibe. However, some find the pacing uneven and the ending slightly predictable. Overall, it's well-received as a spooky, thought-provoking tale suitable for middle-grade readers.

A reader who enjoys dark, atmospheric tales with a mix of mystery and supernatural elements would love The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier. Fans of Coraline by Neil Gaiman and A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket will appreciate its eerie storytelling and richly developed characters.

In The Night Gardener, siblings Molly and Kip flee Ireland and find themselves trapped in a house where a demonic tree drains the life force of the inhabitants. As they navigate the mysterious happenings, they uncover dark secrets about the tree's power and the cost of its wishes, ultimately seeking a way to break the tree's hold on the family living there. Includes themes of death and grief.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Fantastical

- The Night Gardener was a finalist for multiple literary awards, including the Governor General's Literary Award for Children’s Literature - Text in 2014.
- The novel was inspired in part by Victorian ghost stories, which reflects the eerie and immersive atmosphere Auxier aimed to create.
- Author Jonathan Auxier has noted in interviews that the theme of storytelling plays a significant role in the book, reflecting both its power and potential danger.

**Molly McConnachie**  
A protagonist and storyteller who uses her imagination to offer support for herself and her brother, concealing the truth to create a more optimistic reality.

**Kip McConnachie**  
Molly's younger brother who, despite a disability affecting his leg, showcases resilience and strength, carrying a cherished wood-carved crutch named "Courage."

**Penny Windsor**  
The youngest Windsor child who dislikes her current living situation and finds excitement in Molly's arrival, experiencing changes due to the effects of the house's magic.

**Constance Windsor**  
The headstrong woman of the Windsor household who defies typical roles of the Victorian Era, struggling with the upkeep of her family amidst magical influences.

**Mr. Bertrand Windsor**  
The gentle yet timid patriarch of the Windsor family, whose decisions drive much of the family's financial troubles and difficulties with a magical tree.

**Alistair Windsor**  
Penny's older brother, who often bullies others to mask his own insecurities and eventually has significant experiences that influence his behavior.

**Hester Kettle**  
A wandering storyteller who defies conventional expectations, becoming an influential figure for Molly with a keen understanding of storytelling and truth.

Jonathan Auxier

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Night Gardener Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Night Gardener Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Arrivals”

Part 1, Chapters 1-6

The Night Gardener Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-13

The Night Gardener Part 1, Chapters 7-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 14-20

The Night Gardener Part 1, Chapters 14-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Pursuits”

Part 2, Chapters 21-28

The Night Gardener Part 2, Chapters 21-28 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 29-32

The Night Gardener Part 2, Chapters 29-32 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 33-39

The Night Gardener Part 2, Chapters 33-39 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Departures”

Part 3, Chapters 40-47

The Night Gardener Part 3, Chapters 40-47 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 48-56

The Night Gardener Part 3, Chapters 48-56 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Night Gardener Character Analysis

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Themes

The Night Gardener Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Night Gardener Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Night Gardener Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Night Gardener Essay Topics

The Night Gardener

Before You Read

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