This Poison Heart
#1 of 2 in This Poison Heart Series
on Goodreads (29,068)
What’s inside...
Darkness blooms in bestselling author Kalynn Bayron's new contemporary fantasy about a girl with a unique and deadly power. Briseis has a gift: with a single touch she can grow plants from tiny seeds to rich blooms. When Briseis's aunt dies and wills her a dilapidated estate in rural New York, Bri and her parents hope that surrounded by plants and flowers, she will finally learn to control her gift. But their new home is sinister in ways they never expected-it comes with a mysterious set of instructions, a walled garden filled with the deadliest botanicals in the world, and generations of secrets. There is more to Bri's sudden inheritance than she could have imagined, and she is determined to uncover it. From the bestselling author of Cinderella Is Dead comes an enchanting story about a young woman with the power to conquer the dark forces descending around her.
Character compass
Briseis
Mo
Mom
Discussion points
How do you think Briseis feels when she discovers her unique abilities with plants, and how would you feel in her situation?
What are the various ways Briseis's family heritage influences her actions and decisions throughout the story?
The concept of family is important in 'This Poison Heart'. What does family mean to Briseis, and how does it compare to your own definition of family?
How do the characters in the book demonstrate bravery, and in what ways can you relate to their courage?
Discuss the role of secrets in the book. How do secrets affect relationships and outcomes in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book, focusing on the themes of heritage, family, and self-discovery, to create a comfortable space for open discussion.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between their personal experiences and those of Briseis, promoting empathy and deeper understanding of the book’s themes.
Highlight key moments in the book where characters had to make difficult choices. Discuss these situations and ask your child what they would have done differently.
Ask your child about their favorite character and why they chose them. This can lead to a more detailed conversation about character traits and personal values.
Finish your discussion with a creative activity, like drawing a scene from the book or writing a short letter to a character, to allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story in a different format.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of self-discovery
Explanation: In 'This Poison Heart', protagonist Briseis discovers her unique ability to grow plants instantaneously. Throughout the novel, her journey of understanding and mastering her powers parallels a deeper exploration of her identity and heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and explore their own unique talents and backgrounds, understanding that self-discovery is a personal journey that can lead to empowerment and confidence.
Example Lesson: The importance of family and heritage
Explanation: The story emphasizes the significance of Briseis’s familial roots and the legacy passed down through generations, guiding her choices and growth.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value their family history and learn from the experiences and stories of their ancestors, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.
Example Lesson: Responsibility in using one's gifts
Explanation: As Briseis uncovers the extent of her powers, she also learns about the responsibilities that come with them, especially in regards to how they impact others around her.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the lesson that every talent or gift comes with responsibilities, and it's important to use them in ways that positively affect others and the wider community.
Example Lesson: The importance of facing fears
Explanation: Throughout the book, Briseis must confront literal and metaphorical demons from her past and present, an act that brings about growth and resolution.
Real-World Application: This narrative can help children understand that facing their fears, though challenging, is a crucial step in overcoming obstacles and personal growth.
Example Lesson: The significance of making ethical choices
Explanation: In dealing with her powers and the magical elements within the story, Briseis is often faced with difficult decisions that test her morals.
Real-World Application: This element of the story can help instill in children the importance of making decisions that align with their morals and ethics, even when faced with challenging situations.