A Staff Pick

The Librarians have been passing the Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh around and we all loved it. I was drawn to it because of the aspect of magical realism. The main character, Victoria, has built a successful florist business because of her uncanny skill with the language of flowers. She can assemble a bouquet that reignites lost passion, or inspires happiness even in a moody teenage girl. Victoria becomes highly sought after by brides who want not only a beautiful bouquet, but one that has significance and will have an affect on the marriage. Victoria is not the dreamy romantic you would expect in someone well versed in the language of flowers. She is a scarred, scared product of the foster care system filled with hatred and mistrust. The first bouquet she gave after learning about the language of flowers was a thistle which signifies misanthropy. You will root (no pun intended) for Victoria to overcome her bitter past and accept the love that is offered to her.

Fascinating details about the language of flowers are sprinkled throughout the book. You may have to choose another favorite flower after learning peonies indicate anger and yellow roses mean infidelity. How about some tulips, a declaration of love?