The Scent Keeper

Investigate the science of aromatherapy and the actual science behind how the brain stores scents like memories, research that has only been done recently. Using the conversations that Emmeline’s father has with her in the cabin, define the powerful relationship between smells and memories.

The novel uses the template of a fairy tale to begin Emmeline’s coming of age narrative. Research the psychological impact of fairy tales. How do the elements of a traditional fairy tale—a child living in a remote and magical woods, the idea of love at first sight, or the idea of wicked and threatening parents—help shape Emmeline’s education?

Research the psychology of first love. How does the decision to commit to a relationship with someone else measure the emotional growth out of childhood?