Over the years of the Victoria Classics Book Club, our group has grown to encompass thousands of members connected by a love of reading. Below, find discussion questions for past volumes, which can be explored further on our Book Selections page. We also invite you to join the ongoing conversation on our Facebook page, where you will meet a delightful coterie of devoted readers.
Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales
Noted author and artist Beatrix Potter was captivated by England’s Lake District during childhood holidays spent among the quaint hamlets and misty moors. As a girl, she collected small animals during these trips and gently tamed them into pets. The domesticated creatures provided inspiration and companionship during her solitary Victorian childhood as she developed her creative talents. When Beatrix grew into adulthood, these adventures were published, and her now-cherished stories and illustrations continue to enchant generations of children. In our shop, find Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales, a charming edition for any library.
“Once upon a time there were four little rabbits, and their names were Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-tail, and Peter.” So begins Beatrix Potter’s first children’s book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, as found in Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales. How old were you when you first heard the account of this mischievous little fellow? What was your favorite part of the story?
Both of Beatrix Potter’s parents were skilled artists, and they passed on this talent to their daughter, as evidenced in the delightful illustrations showcased in Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales. What are some of the characteristics or traits you were happy to inherit from your parents?
Peter Rabbit, Squirrel Nutkin, Benjamin Bunny—Beatrix Potter created so many loveable characters! Who is your favorite—and why? (One of our staff loves Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, the hedgehog washerwoman, because of her perpetual smile.)
“Peter was not very well during the evening,” Beatrix Potter wrote in The Tale of Peter Rabbit. His mother put him to bed and made some chamomile tea: “ ‘One table-spoonful to be taken at bedtime,’ ” as noted in Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales. Was there an old family recipe or special tradition your mother, father, or other relative used to make you feel better when you were ill or sad?
You can enjoy some of our favorites with this delightful summer fare.
Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales brims with an adorable cast of enchanting woodland creatures. In the author and illustrator’s life, an abiding love for animals resulted in her keeping a menagerie of pets, including rabbits, mice, and even bats. She had a special affinity for dogs, in particular her beloved collie, Kep. Have you had a pet that was especially dear to you?
Many of us remember Beatrix Potter collectible items, such as the Royal Albert figurine set, as well as Wedgwood’s Peter Rabbit collection, first introduced in 1947. When one of our editors designed her firstborn’s nursery, she displayed similar keepsakes passed down from her husband’s family. Many readers have framed pages from volumes such as Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales. How did these adorable characters appear in your own home décor?
Beatrix Potter’s love for nature is evident. Apart from her literary life, she was a strong advocate for land conservation and supported the efforts of the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty. She bought a number of farms in the Lake District, which she restored and preserved. What is a cause that you are passionate about?
“There is something delicious about writing the first words of a story,” said Beatrix Potter, author and illustrator of Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales. “You never know quite where they’ll take you.” Whether it’s opening a book, embarking on a creative project, or climbing into the car for a spontaneous road trip, the anticipation of what lies ahead certainly is heart stirring. Describe an occasion in your own life where that sense of adventure has been “delicious.”
Find Victoria Classics Book Club resources—including discussion questions, companion materials, and a reader forum—at Victorimag.com!