The Enchanted Greenhouse

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Compare and contrast the novel to other classic and contemporary cozy fantasy books, such as Diana Wynne Jones’s Howl’s Moving Castle (1986) and Travis Baldree’s Legends & Lattes (2022). How do these authors utilize familiar fantasy conventions in distinctive ways, and what decisions and techniques do they use to create the whimsical, comforting mood associated with this subgenre?

2. Have you read any of Sarah Beth Durst’s other books, such as The Spellshop (2024) or her Alex Award–winning epic fantasy novel, The Queen of Blood (2017)? If so, what striking similarities and key differences do you see between the stories’ characters and themes? Are there any patterns that you notice in Durst’s novels across subgenres?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Tranquility is an important part of the “cottagecore” subgenre, and baking is one way that Yarrow cultivates a sense of calm. In your own life, do you have a hobby or an interest that helps you manage stress and improve your well-being? Describe the benefits you’ve found from participating in this activity.

2. Terlu is an extrovert, whereas Yarrow is introverted. Which one of these personality types do you relate to more and why? How has your social style influenced your approach to relationships and community?

3. Durst uses Terlu and Rijes to explore the theme of second chances. Has someone ever given you a second chance? Were you able to repay this person for their help? If not, what would you like to say to this person given the opportunity?

4. Although Terlu is apart from her biological family in the novel, the protagonist creates a found family with the humans and plants she meets on Belde. What do you think distinguishes a found family member from a friend? Is there anyone in your own life whom you consider your chosen family?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. Analyze the link between the growing popularity of the “cottagecore” subculture and the sociocultural changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Why are many readers impacted by these changes drawn to “cottagecore” fiction? Consider providing examples drawn from research or your own personal experiences to deepen your discussion.

2. In the novel, the emperor hoards magic, and Terlu must break unjust laws to save the greenhouse. What insights can this story offer contemporary society on topics like inequality and civil disobedience?

3. In recent years, health experts have expressed concerns about a “loneliness epidemic.” How might Durst’s treatment of Escaping Isolation Through Empathy provide some ideas on how to address this issue?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Durst employs detailed imagery throughout The Enchanted Greenhouse. How does this literary device contribute to the story’s genre and tone? Cite specific examples from the text to support your response.

2. In what ways is Terlu’s identity shaped by the theme of second chances? How does she seek redemption and purpose, and what obstacles does she face in this search? By the end of the novel, how has Terlu changed because of the second chance she received?

3. Discuss how the setting of the enchanted greenhouse advances the novel’s structure, character development, and theme of escaping isolation through empathy.

4. How does Terlu and Yarrow’s relationship illustrate the theme of The Healing Power of Love? Cite specific evidence from the text to show how their bond empowers them to support and transform one another.

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. If you were to select plants that symbolize the story’s human characters, which would you choose and why? Share visuals of the plants you chose along with your reasoning.

2. Imagine an epilogue in which Caz and Terlu’s biological family visit Belde for the Summer Feast. How do you predict this reunion would go?