The Language of Flowers Quarterly Challenge

The Language of Flowers Quarterly Challenge
Goodreads
March 15, 2014 - June 14, 2014


There is a language, little known,
Lovers claim it as their own.
Its symbols smile upon the land,
Wrought by nature's wondrous hand;
And in their silent beauty speak,
Of life and joy, to those who seek
For Love Divine and sunny hours
In the language of the flowers.
–The Language of Flowers, London, 1875


Flowers and plants have always been used to convey messages - congratulations, apologies, friendship, love. Many flowers also have meanings that are not as well-known.

This challenge is based on the meanings behind certain flowers and plants...some common and others more obscure. Have fun, and the next time you wander through the garden, take a minute to listen to what those flowers are really saying! :D


Challenge Levels

4 books read - Nosegay

8 books read - Formal Arrangement

12 books read - Container Garden

16 books read - Cottage Garden

With Bonus - Ready to Start Your Own Nursery!


1.  Alstroemeria flower is symbolic of wealth, prosperity and fortune. Read a book in which one of the main characters is extremely wealthy.

2.  Anthurium symbolizes hospitality. Read a book set in the hospitality industry (restaurant, bar, hotel, bed and breakfast, event planner, etc).       

3.  Baby's Breath symbolizes festivity. Read a book in which the storyline includes a party, festival, or celebration.

4.  Black-Eyed Susan symbolizes justice. Read a book with a character who is involved in the legal profession, law enforcement, or military.

5.  Daffodil symbolizes regard and chivalry. It is indicative of rebirth, new beginnings and eternal life. Read a book with a character who is immortal or has been "reborn", or who is starting over after a major life change.

6.  Daisy symbolizes innocence and purity. Read a book with a virginal character.

7.  Enchanter's Nightshade symbolizes witchcraft, sorcery, and enchantment. Read a book involving magic or witchcraft, or with a love at first sight storyline.

8.  Hyacinth symbolizes playfulness and a sporty attitude. Read a book set in the world of sports, or with a playful, easy-going character.

9.  Iris symbolizes Faith, Hope, Wisdom and Valour. It is the emblem of France, and also means "Your Friendship Means So Much to Me" Read a book with a French character, author, or setting, or one involving a close friendship.            

10.  Larkspur symbolizes levity or lightness. It is also indicative of fickleness and haughtiness. Read a humorous book, or one with a snobbish, patronizing character. 

11.  Lilac symbolizes youthful innocence and confidence. Read a YA or children's book, or a book in which a child or teen plays an important part in the storyline.           

12.  Orange Blossom symbolizes fertility. Read a book in which a main character is or has been pregnant, or is a parent.         

13.  Orchid is a symbol of the exotic beauty. It symbolizes refinement, thoughtfulness and mature charm. Read a book with a character known for exceptional beauty, or a book where at least one of the main characters is over 40.

14.  Protea symbolizes change and transformation. It signifies daring and resourcefulness. It is symbolic of diversity and courage. Read an LGBT book, one with multi-cultural characters, or where a character is dealing with intolerance, favoritism, unfairness, etc.

15.  Snapdragon symbolizes deception and presumption. Read a book in which one of the main characters is hiding something, or someone has unfair and/or untrue assumptions made about them.

16.  Tulip signifies a declaration of love. It also symbolizes fame and perfect love. Read a romance in which at least one of the main characters is famous.


Bonus: A rose by any other name color...

The rose in general is a symbol of love, but different colors of roses also have different meanings.

A Pink Rose is a symbol of friendship. Read a book with a friends to lovers plot.
A Dark Crimson Rose is a symbol of mourning. Read a book with a main character who is a widow or widower, or who is mourning the loss of a loved one.
A Red and White Rose is a symbol of unity, and the emblem of England. Read a book where the main characters are in an established, committed relationship throughout the book, or a book set in England or with an English author or character.
A Red Rose is a symbol of passionate love. Read any romance novel.

7.  Master of the Highlands - Veronica Wolff (Berkley - Feb 2008) (magic maze/time travel) - Apr 22
13.  Blue By You - Rachel Gibson (Avon - Nov 2013) (hero 43, heroine 40) - Mar 16
14.  Shadow's Stand - Sara McCarty (HQN - Feb 2012) (Chinese-American heroine, Mexican-Native hero) - Mar 19

Bonus:


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