It is an almost impossible question to answer, isn't it? That's why I broadened it. I think books interest us and appeal to us for a variety of reasons. perhaps they were our favourite but they still struck us some how. This, to me, is still important.
Exactly as you explained your reasoning for why you listed The Secret Garden. I get it. I know I have loved stories from childhood that I don't want to revisit, in case it isn't like I remember and I destroy my found recollection of it.
Thanks for sharing some books that you have enjoyed. Glad to have read your thoughts. I will add these to my list to have keep a look out for in the future.