The God of the Woods quickly became a New York Times bestseller and topped the charts at independent bookstores. If you loved Moore’s previous novel, Long Bright River (which was one of Barack Obama’s favorite books of 2020), you’ll want to pick this one up. Plus, there’s exciting news—Long Bright River is being adapted into a TV series for 2025, and both The God of the Woods and The Unseen World have been picked up for potential TV adaptations by Sony.
Heads up: the book touches on some tough topics like substance use, domestic violence, and the loss of a child, so be prepared for that going in.
What’s Included in This Guide: Online & Printable Versions
Everything you need for a successful book club meeting for The God of the Woods is included below. You’ll find discussion questions, food and drink ideas, and more!
We also have an optional printable book club kit to take your meeting to the next level. This blog post is customized to the guide and includes the following pages:
- Character List
- Discussion Questions
- Quotes from the Book
- Themed Book Ideas
- Printable Bookmarks
- Extra Info: Author facts
- Themed Food & Drink Ideas
- Book Covers from Around the World
- Custom Journal Page for Meeting Details
- Themed Notes Page
- List of Additional Book Club Resources
Book Club Questions | Additional Recommendations | Printable Book Club Kit
Characters | Summary | Ending Explained | Book Club Ideas
About the Author | Book Review
The God of the Woods
Liz Moore’s The God of the Woods (2024) kicks off with a chilling mystery: on a summer morning in 1975, 13-year-old Barbara Van Laar is discovered missing from her bunk at Camp Emerson. Barbara is part of the wealthy and influential Van Laar family, who own the camp, and her disappearance brings immediate concern, especially since it mirrors the mysterious vanishing of her brother, Peter “Bear” Van Laar IV, 14 years earlier.
The novel jumps between different characters and timelines, slowly revealing the Van Laar family’s secrets. It’s not just about the mystery, though. Moore explores big themes like the dangers of wealth, the heavy cost of keeping secrets, and the struggles women faced in mid-20th century America.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Release date: July 2, 2024
Genre: Psychological Literary Fiction
Hardcover: 490 pages
Publisher: Riverhead Books
Book Club Questions for The God of the Woods
- Throughout the book, Barbara is portrayed as rebellious, especially in the eyes of her parents. Do you think her disappearance was an act of rebellion, or was it more of a cry for help? What was Barbara truly searching for, and do you think she found it by the end of the novel?
- The Van Laar family is full of secrets, from Bear’s mysterious disappearance to Barbara’s current vanishing. How do these secrets affect the family dynamics? Do you think the characters are more damaged by the secrets they keep or by the eventual revelations? How does each character’s relationship with secrecy shape their actions?
- Alice’s grief over Bear’s disappearance consumes her, leading her down a dark path of denial, alcohol, and isolation. How do you think Alice’s grief could have been handled differently if the people around her (especially Peter) had acted with more empathy? How do societal expectations of women impact her mental health and treatment by others?
- Louise begins the novel as a young, struggling camp counselor who fears being blamed for Barbara’s disappearance. How does Louise’s character evolve throughout the novel? What does her growth say about resilience, taking ownership of one’s actions, and standing up for what’s right? Do you think Louise becomes empowered by the end of the story?
- The Van Laar family is wealthy and powerful, yet their money and status don’t protect them from the chaos in their lives. How do class and privilege impact the decisions of the Van Laar family, and how do these dynamics affect the other characters, like Louise and Tracy? Do you think the novel suggests that wealth cannot shield you from deeper emotional or moral struggles?
- The ending of The God of the Woods has many twists and turns, especially concerning Barbara’s fate. What was your reaction to the final revelation about her? Were you surprised by what you learned about the Van Laar family’s role in her disappearance? How did the ending change the way you viewed the characters?
- One of the key themes of the book is loneliness and isolation. Barbara feels isolated from her family, Alice is isolated in her grief, and even Louise feels like an outsider. How do these feelings of isolation affect the characters’ choices and actions? Do any of them find a way to break free from their isolation, and what role does connection play in their journey?
- Judyta “Judy” Luptack is the first female investigator in Albany, and throughout the book, she faces obstacles because of her gender. How does Judy navigate the sexism in her career while still being effective at solving the case? How does her quiet determination and empathy make her a unique investigator, and what do you think her character teaches us about perseverance in a male-dominated world?
- The title of the book, The God of the Woods, evokes a sense of mystery and power. What do you think the woods symbolize in the novel? Are they a place of freedom, danger, or both? How do the woods serve as a backdrop for the characters’ struggles and secrets, and what do they represent to Barbara, Alice, and the other characters?
- Tracy is initially portrayed as an introverted, quiet character who is used to being on the sidelines. How does her friendship with Barbara help her come out of her shell? What does Tracy’s loyalty to Barbara tell us about the importance of friendship and standing up for others, even when it’s difficult? Do you think Tracy’s decision to eventually reveal Barbara’s secrets was an act of maturity or betrayal?
- Barbara, despite her complicated personal life, maintains an air of being “untouchable” due to her family’s wealth and social position. How does her status affect the way other characters view her? Do you think Barbara ever embraces her privilege, or does she resent it?
- Bear’s disappearance is a key turning point in the novel, and its mystery continues to affect the characters long after. How do you interpret the circumstances around Bear’s disappearance? Do you think it was an accident, a murder, or something more sinister? What does Bear’s fate represent for the family?
- Camp Emerson acts as a microcosm for the broader themes of the book, especially in terms of class and privilege. How does the camp setting bring out these themes? How does Barbara’s position within the camp mirror her position in society?
- Alice’s struggles with alcohol are a significant part of her decline, especially after Bear’s disappearance. How does alcohol function as a coping mechanism for Alice? Do you think her reliance on alcohol is a form of rebellion or escapism, or is it something deeper?
- There’s something so captivating about the way Liz Moore intertwines two disappearances in the Van Laar family. How did this dual mystery affect the tension in the story? Did you find that one mystery was more compelling than the other?
- This novel digs deep into class issues. How did the stark contrast between the wealthy Van Laars and the working-class townspeople affect how characters interact and make decisions? Did it change how you felt about certain characters?
- Mother-daughter relationships are always complicated, but Barbara and Alice’s dynamic felt especially fraught. Why do you think they were so distant from each other? Could things have been different if Alice had handled things differently?
- The novel is told from multiple viewpoints, each adding a different layer to the story. Whose perspective did you connect with most? Was there a character’s narrative that gave you new insights or completely shifted your understanding of the story?
- Throughout the book, themes of power and privilege are everywhere, especially when it comes to the Van Laar family. How do you think Moore portrays the corrupting influence of wealth? Did any moments in the book feel especially jarring or eye-opening in terms of these themes?
- Characters like Detective Judy Luptack and Barbara’s mom, Alice, bring interesting layers to the narrative. How does Moore portray their struggles, strengths, and resilience in a male-dominated world? In what ways do they push against or fall victim to the societal expectations of their time?
- The book shifts between timelines, and 1975 plays a huge part in the events of the story. How does the time period impact the characters’ actions and decisions? Were there any historical elements that made the story feel more grounded or add to the overall mystery?
- The wilderness backdrop of the Adirondacks feels almost like a character in itself. How does the setting impact the atmosphere and mood of the novel? What role does the wilderness play in the story’s progression or themes?
- Now, let’s talk formats! Did you read The God of the Woods in print, on your Kindle, or did you listen to the audiobook? How did the format impact your experience, and would you recommend it in that format to others?
- Have you ever had a summer camp experience similar to the one in the book? Was it anything like Camp Emerson? Share your memories (good or bad) from your time at camp!
- Was there one particular mystery that you found most compelling? Was it Barbara’s disappearance, Bear’s tragic fate, or something else? What made that storyline stand out to you?
- Without giving too much away, the book concludes with some shocking revelations. How did the ending affect you emotionally? Do you feel that the resolution was satisfying, or did it leave you with more questions? How do the final moments tie together the novel’s themes of grief, family secrets, and redemption?
- After finishing the book, how does The God of the Woods compare to other thrillers or mysteries you’ve read? What stood out to you as unique about Moore’s storytelling style or approach to suspense?
- There’s a lot of tension around social class in this book. How do you think Moore used the Van Laar family’s wealth and status to comment on society? What did the book ultimately say about family dynamics and expectations?
- Was there anything in the book that really stuck with you that we haven’t touched on yet? Any moments that left you thinking long after you turned the last page?
- If you’ve read Liz Moore’s other works (like Long Bright River), how did they compare to The God of the Woods? Which one stood out more to you?
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re here, chances are you’re either just diving into The God of the Woods or already finished it and have a ton of questions (don’t worry, you’re not alone!). This novel is a beautifully complex and emotional read, and it’s totally normal to be left with lingering thoughts after you’ve turned that last page. So, let’s dive into some of the most common questions about this book!
Can I Get a Printable Version of the Book Club Guide?
Yes! We have a printable version, just scroll down below.
Is There a The God of the Woods Audiobook?
Yes, there is an audiobook version of The God of the Woods.
Narrated by: Saskia Maarleveld
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Released: July 02, 2024
Listening length: 14 hours and 35 minutes
Language: English
Most readers appreciate the well-developed characters and writing quality. However, some feel the story is too long and difficult to follow. Opinions are mixed on the pacing, with some finding it ideal and fast, while others say it starts a bit slow.
What’s This Book About in a Nutshell?
- Teenager vanishes from Adirondack summer camp, uncovering dark secrets of wealthy family and working-class community.
Is There a The God of the Woods Movie?
Unfortunately, there is no movie adaptation of The God of the Woods just yet. As much as we’d love to see Barbara’s punk rock spirit, Louise’s quiet strength, and the intense family dynamics come to life on screen, the book is still waiting for its moment in the spotlight (fingers crossed, right?). With its emotionally charged characters and layered plot, though, I can totally imagine it becoming a great movie one day. But for now, we’ll just have to keep imagining the scenes in our minds as we re-read the novel!
Is The God of the Woods a Good Book Club Pick?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a book club pick that will spark deep conversations, All the Colors of the Dark is a perfect choice. It’s rich with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and thought-provoking themes like family, redemption, and the impact of trauma. Plus, the novel has plenty of twists and mysteries to keep everyone on their toes and talking long after you’ve finished reading.
Are There Other Books by Liz Moore?
Yes! If you fell in love with The God of the Woods, you’re in for a treat—Liz Moore has more incredible books under her belt that dive into complex relationships, identity, and human nature. Some of her most well-known works include:
- Long Bright River (2020)
This novel is a gripping, atmospheric thriller that follows two sisters, one of whom has gone missing while the other works as a cop. It explores addiction, family, and the complex ties that bind us. If you loved the intense family dynamics and psychological depth in The God of the Woods, you’ll definitely want to check this one out! - The Unseen World (2016)
A coming-of-age story about a young girl trying to make sense of her father’s mysterious life. It blends themes of technology, relationships, and self-discovery, and it’s been praised for its intellectual depth and heart. Fans of Moore’s ability to tackle emotional complexity will appreciate this one.
Moore’s writing is all about human vulnerability, so if you loved The God of the Woods, these two books should absolutely be on your radar.
Books Like The God of the Woods
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
The New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye and The Rose Code returns with a haunting and powerful story of female friendships and secrets in a Washington, DC, boardinghouse during the McCarthy era.
Washington, DC, 1950. Everyone keeps to themselves at Briarwood House, a down-at-the-heels all-female boardinghouse in the heart of the nation’s capital where secrets hide behind white picket fences. But when the lovely, mysterious widow Grace March moves into the attic room, she draws her oddball collection of neighbors into unlikely friendship: poised English beauty Fliss, whose facade of perfect wife and mother covers gaping inner wounds; policeman’s daughter Nora, who finds herself entangled with a shadowy gangster; frustrated baseball star Beatrice, whose career has come to an end along with the women’s baseball league of WWII; and poisonous, gung-ho Arlene, who has thrown herself into McCarthy’s Red Scare.
Grace’s weekly attic-room dinner parties and window-brewed sun tea become a healing balm on all their lives, but she hides a terrible secret of her own. When a shocking act of violence tears the house apart, the Briar Club women must decide once and for all: who is the true enemy in their midst?
Capturing the paranoia of the McCarthy era and evoking the changing roles for women in postwar America, The Briar Club is an intimate and thrilling novel of secrets and loyalty put to the test.
James by Percival Everett
A brilliant, action-packed reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, both harrowing and darkly humorous, told from the enslaved Jim’s point of view.
When the enslaved Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he decides to hide on nearby Jackson Island until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has faked his own death to escape his violent father, recently returned to town. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and too-often-unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond.
While many narrative set pieces of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn remain in place (floods and storms, stumbling across both unexpected death and unexpected treasure in the myriad stopping points along the river’s banks, encountering the scam artists posing as the Duke and Dauphin…), Jim’s agency, intelligence and compassion are shown in a radically new light.
Brimming with the electrifying humor and lacerating observations that have made Everett a “literary icon” (Oprah Daily), and one of the most decorated writers of our lifetime, James is destined to be a cornerstone of twenty-first century American literature.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
From the acclaimed author of The Poisonwood Bible and The Bean Trees, a brilliant novel that enthralls, compels, and captures the heart as it evokes a young hero’s unforgettable journey to maturity
Set in the mountains of southern Appalachia, Demon Copperhead is the story of a boy born to a teenaged single mother in a single-wide trailer, with no assets beyond his dead father’s good looks and copper-colored hair, a caustic wit, and a fierce talent for survival. Relayed in his own unsparing voice, Demon braves the modern perils of foster care, child labor, derelict schools, athletic success, addiction, disastrous loves, and crushing losses.
Through all of it, he reckons with his own invisibility in a popular culture where even the superheroes have abandoned rural people in favor of generations ago, Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield from his experience as a survivor of institutional poverty and its damages to children in his society. Those problems have yet to be solved in ours. Dickens is not a prerequisite for readers of this novel, but he provided its inspiration.
In transposing a Victorian epic novel to the contemporary American South, Barbara Kingsolver enlists Dickens’ anger and compassion, and above all, his faith in the transformative powers of a good story. Demon Copperhead speaks for a new generation of lost boys, and all those born into beautiful, cursed places they can’t imagine leaving behind.
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I love to read and I enjoy exploring a range of genres including contemporary and historical fiction, mysteries, thrillers, nonfiction, and memoirs. If you would like me to review your book, feel free to reach out to me!