10 Flower-Inspired Novels to Add to Your Reading List

Whether you enjoy browsing the new releases or lean more towards timeless classics, you can agree that sitting down with a new book is an exciting experience. Are you a fan of gripping tales and pretty flowers? Combine a few of your favorite things by reading a book tied to one of nature’s many works of art.

 From a specific type to a field of fresh blossoms, using flowers as a metaphor in novels has always been a unique way to tell a story. We’ve rounded up 10 well-known works, as well as some unfamiliar and interesting titles inspired by flowers to add to your reading list.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

While the garden in this timeless classic consists of a variety of colorful blossoms, roses hold the most meaning for the main characters. Known for representing desire, beauty and love, the rose is the perfect symbol for the trials that the characters experience.

Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury

While some consider a dandelion to be nothing more than a weed, the narrator of this story sees it as much more than that. This bright and cheery flower not only holds a special reminder of a magical time for the main character in Dandelion Wine, but also represents a time of joy and innocence.

Flowers For Algernon by Daniel Keyes

While there isn’t a specific flower named in the bouquet for Algernon, there is a genuine meaning behind this title. These blooms are representative of the friendship and mutual respect between Charlie and Algernon.

The Sunflower Forest by Torey L. Hayden

Sunflowers, which represent vitality and friendship, are the perfect metaphor for this multifaceted mother and daughter relationship. The Sunflower Forest is a great example of how life isn’t only about the destination, but the journey as well.

Desert Flower by Waris Dirie & Cathleen Miller

Named after a flower that’s known for being resilient, the protagonist in this story faces numerous hardships and emerges stronger every time. This story of triumph and tribulation is a great representation of what it takes and means to be a survivor.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Somewhat of a loner, the protagonist Charlie, considers himself an outsider. Similar to a wallflower, he lives life off-to-the-side but very aware of the people and experiences surrounding him.

White Oleander by Janet Fitch

The oleander flower is a perfect metaphor for this toxic mother and daughter relationship.  Known to be poisonous, Oleanders are usually associated with the words “caution” and “beware”.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel by Deborah Moggach

Marigolds, recognized as a symbol of beauty and creativity, is the best flower to describe the eclectic setting at which this story takes place. It’s bright color and distinct shape is similar to the personalities presented in this book.

The Orchid House by Lucinda Riley

A symbol of elegance and pride, the orchid is a great representation of the prominent families that this story follows over several generations. From England to Thailand, readers will experience excitement and adventure on every page of The Orchid House.

The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley

A mystery set in a small town, this novel explores the different stages of love and how they can change with time. The rose, a symbol of everlasting love, is the perfect flower for a story filled with romance and secrecy.

Flowers, although mostly recognized for their beauty and bright colors, are stories within themselves. From cultural significance to various uses, flowers play a unique but important role in the lives of many, both on and off printed pages. Settle into a comfy chair next to a beautiful bouquet that is unique to your personal story and dive into one of these page-turners. Use this list as a starting point for exploring new genres and finding novels based on your favorite flowers to enjoy in the years to come.

From timeless classics to unfamiliar titles, using flowers as a way to describe characters or places has always been a popular storytelling practice for many authors. Throughout the pages of these bloom-filled stories, readers will find characters who turn into friends and simple paragraphs that turn into adventures.

Source: GoodReads