Sense and Sensibility Book Retreat

Welcome to The Primrose Tales Literary Club’s seasonal at-home retreats, celebrating our shared love for classic works and the authors who penned them. As this year marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birthday, we have an exciting lineup of cozy self-guided retreats featuring some of her most beloved novels.

Complete with themed giveaways, printable bookish retreat kits, suggestions for tea pairings, journal prompts, and period inspired crafts, these retreats are curated experiences that allow you to experience the atmosphere of a bookish retreat from the comfort you your home, blending reading with relaxation, creativity, and connection.

At the end of each season, grab your favorite hot beverage, cozy up in your favorite reading spot, and join us for a virtual retreat and webinar as we discuss the featured book or books. All attendees will be eligible to enter additional giveaways and will enjoy lively discussions with selected star guests of honor.

In celebration of spring and in the spirit of new beginnings, renewal, and second chances, I am excited to start the year off with Jane Austin’s first published novel, and my favorite of hers. Our Spring with Sense and Sensibility Retreat is the perfect escape, whether you’re a reader or not. We’ll delve into the world of Elinor and Marianne, within the pages of the novel, or as they come to life on screen in one of the many adaptations. We’ll visit our favorite characters at Barton cottage and Norland Park, read Shakespear, and take walks in the countryside, remembering to stop and smell the wildflowers.

Spring with Sense and Sensibility Retreat Schedule

During this three day Sense and Sensibility retreat we will read the book, watch the movies, have tea and treats, journal, and create a lovely dried flowers bookmark. Below is a brief summary of the schedule and helpful links. For the complete itinerary breakdown, a welcome letter, and more, download your complimentary copy of the retreat kit.

Day 1

Read the first chapters of Sense & Sensibility. Watch the 1995 adaptation of the novel, or both. By far my favorite, this motion picture features a stellar cast, including Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Greg Wise, and Imelda Staunton, to name a few.

Have your first tea and treat pairing: Elinor’s Lavender Earl Grey tea and Strawberry and Lavender Shortcakes.

Answer the journal prompt included in your kit and take a spring walk or sit on the porch for a breath of fresh air.

Day 2

Read chapters 15-34 and watch the 2008 mini series adaptation of the novel, or both.

Light a seasonal candle to set the mood and have your second tea and treat pairing. This time, enjoy Marianne’s Rosehip & Hibiscus tea blend with Lemon Drizzle Cake. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, the rosehip and hibiscus tea blend may ease pain and boost the immune system. Garnish with dried rose flowers or a mint leaf.

Write a letter to your future self 3 years from now.

Day 3

Finish the book and/or watch the 1980 adaptation of Sense & Sensibility.

Have your third tea and treat pairing: Mrs. Dashwood’s Camomile Delight tea and Very Berry Scones with Clotted Cream. Pair those a sunset reading or gazing session.

For an optional Regency period pastime activity, make a pressed flower bookmark while you listen to soft piano or classical music.

In closing…

As your retreat concludes, take a moment to reflect on this experience and what it meant to you. Whether you journaled every day or simply read quietly with tea in hand, even if just a few minutes, I hope this retreat has brought you a few moments of joy and it has been uplifting and inspirational.

Whether you are a lifelong fan of Jane Austen’s work, or this is the first time you are reading about her, you are welcome to join us during the end of season virtual retreat for an intimate discussion with like-minded friends and a guest to be announced soon. The Primrose Tales Literary Club is meant to inspire, empower, and uplift, as are these self-guided and virtual retreats.

Reading the book is optional, as is participation in the discussion, and you will be entered in the seasonal giveaway automatically when you opt to download the retreat kit. If you decide to join us for the virtual event, you’ll be eligible for the additional giveaway to be presented on the day. Zoom link will be sent a few days before the event to everyone who opts in for the printable retreat kit.

For more bookish content, book reviews and recommendations visit our book club page.

We hope to meet you soon and happy reading!