1. Think about the rose as a symbol. How many meanings are tied to roses in this novel?

2. If you know older versions of this story, what is the impact of seeing details changed in this version?

3. Why does Beauty have her nightmare?

Is it a warning? What does it mean that the Greenwitch comforts her as a child?

4. What is the role of Jeweltongue and Lionheart in the novel? Are they foils for Beauty? Why do we see their love stories as well?

5. Is Beauty's father to blame for sending her to the Beast? Why does he take the rose? Is Beauty herself at fault? Or is there a greater destiny at work?

6. Why did the Beast isolate himself after being punished by the Guardians? Is he partially responsible for his own "enchantment"?

7. What has kept the Beast's humanity alive? Is it his own...