The God of the Woods Book Discussion Guide

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

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Release date: July 2, 2024
Genre: Psychological Literary Fiction
Hardcover: 490 pages
Publisher: Riverhead Books

The God of the Woods Book Reviews

“Rich in background detail and secondary mysteries . . . this ever-expansive, intricate, emotionally engaging novel never seems overplotted. Every piece falls skillfully into place and every character, major and minor, leaves an imprint.”
—Kirkus, STARRED review

“Intercutting past and present, Moore keeps the suspense at a fever pitch amid nuanced portraits of the out-of-touch Van Laars, their hangers-on and the locals who both depend on and resent them. A winner.” 
—People 

“The God of the Woods, like The Secret History, transports readers so deeply into its richly peopled, ominous world that, for hours, everything else falls away. . . . Breaking free of the spell Moore casts is close to impossible.”
—Washington Post

“Her fictional summer camp felt as vivid to me as my own.”
— The New York Times

The God of the Woods Summary

The God of the Woods kicks off on an August morning in 1975 when Barbara Van Laar, a 13-year-old from the wealthy Van Laar family, goes missing from Camp Emerson. Louise Donnadieu, a counselor at the camp, realizes Barbara is gone and starts to panic—she had snuck out the night before and worries she’ll get blamed. Louise tells the camp director, TJ Hewitt, and the search begins.

The story jumps between different time periods, from the 1950s, 1961, and 1975, unraveling the deep-rooted secrets of the Van Laar family. We learn about Barbara’s mother, Alice, who was trapped in a loveless, arranged marriage to Peter Van Laar III. Despite her discontent, Alice found joy in her son, Peter IV (nicknamed Bear), but everything fell apart when Bear mysteriously disappeared in 1961 during one of the Van Laar’s fancy summer parties. Alice never recovered and spiraled into depression.

As the search for Barbara continues, Detective Judyta “Judy” Luptack, a rookie detective, uncovers a web of secrets, including suspicions around John Paul Jr., Barbara’s godbrother, who was seen beaten and bloodied the night before she vanished. When Barbara’s camper uniform is found in his car, things take a darker turn. Louise is also caught up in the drama, facing accusations of drug possession and fearing she’s being framed by the powerful Van Laar family.

The novel moves back and forth between Barbara’s present at the camp and the family’s past tragedies, revealing just how twisted the Van Laar history really is. We see Barbara befriending Tracy, her shy bunkmate, and sneaking out to meet a secret boyfriend. There’s also a growing mystery around TJ, the camp director, and her connection to Barbara.

As the story unfolds, the search for Barbara uncovers even more hidden truths about Bear’s disappearance years earlier. Was he a victim of a local serial killer? Or was it something more sinister within the Van Laar family itself?

Without giving away too much, the book builds to a surprising conclusion as Detective Judy uncovers shocking secrets about the Van Laars—and ultimately, Barbara’s fate.

Book Club Questions for The God of the Woods

1. 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?
2. 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?
3. 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?
4. 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?
5. 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?
6. 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?
7. 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?
8. 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?
9. 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?
10. 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?
11. 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?
12. 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?
13. 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?
14. 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?
15. 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?
16. 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?
17. 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?
18. 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?
19. 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?
20. 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?
21. 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?
22. 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?
23. 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?
24. 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!
25. 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?
26. 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?
27. 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?
28. 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?
29. 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?
30. 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?

The God of the Woods Characters

Barbara Van Laar

Barbara is at the center of The God of the Woods, even though much of the story revolves around her disappearance. At first, we only see her through her parents’ eyes—they see her as a rebellious teen who’s out of control, ungrateful, and needs military school to “straighten her out.” But the real Barbara is much deeper. She uses her punk style and attitude to push back against her parents’ obsession with wealth and status.

At Camp Emerson, Barbara has this untouchable air because of her last name, but most of the campers don’t actually get close to her. One exception is her bunkmate Tracy, who gets to know the real Barbara. As their friendship grows, it’s clear that Barbara is just a regular teen who’s down-to-earth and knows what she likes, even if that makes her seem “different.” She’s also super capable when it comes to outdoor skills—thanks to her mentor TJ—and becomes a natural leader during camp activities.

Underneath her tough exterior, though, Barbara is craving love and connection, especially with her mom, Alice, who’s too lost in her own struggles to be there for her daughter. Feeling emotionally abandoned and suffocated by her parents’ lifestyle, Barbara decides to take things into her own hands and disappears to TJ’s cabin, hoping for a fresh start away from the neglect and expectations.

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Louise Donnadieu

Louise is the first person to notice that Barbara is missing, and she’s dealing with her own issues. She’s a young camp counselor who’s had to grow up fast, caring for her younger brother Jesse because their mom isn’t really around. Louise is used to struggling, so she’s keenly aware that the rich Van Laar family and their friends look down on her. Despite this, Louise doesn’t want to marry John Paul for status—she just works hard to support herself and her brother.

When Barbara vanishes, Louise quickly realizes that she could be blamed, especially since she broke the rules by sneaking out the night before. She’s nervous that no one will believe her after what happened between John Paul and Lee Towson, but Louise refuses to let the powerful families pin the blame on her. By the end, she really grows as a character, standing up for herself and pressing charges against John Paul for his abuse, showing that she’s no longer willing to let the wealthy control her future.

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Tracy Jewell

Tracy is Barbara’s quiet, introverted bunkmate, and she’s used to being on the outside looking in. After her parents’ messy divorce and a distant relationship with her dad, Tracy is kind of used to being overlooked. She’s the type to stay in her own world, happy to read books instead of mingling with other campers.

But then, to her surprise, Barbara and another camper, Lowell, befriend her. Through their friendship, we see Tracy’s loyalty and kindness. She’s someone Barbara confides in, sharing secrets about her boyfriend and sneaking out at night. Tracy keeps Barbara’s secrets, but when push comes to shove, she knows what’s right. She steps up and shares important information with the investigators, showing that she really cares about Barbara’s safety. Tracy grows from being the quiet outsider to a strong, supportive friend who’s wise beyond her years.

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Alice Van Laar

At first glance, Alice seems like a classic tragic figure. In her early years, she’s this kind, naïve young woman who, unfortunately, gets swept up into an arranged marriage with Peter Van Laar—much older, emotionally distant, and more concerned with appearances than actual connection. It doesn’t take long for Alice to realize that she’s just part of Peter’s social game. He doesn’t love her, and she doesn’t have the power to challenge the status quo. She becomes passive, simply going through the motions of life, always trying to please Peter and their high-society friends.

But there’s one person who brings her some sense of purpose: her son, Bear. Alice’s love for Bear is everything. He’s her anchor. And when he disappears—well, that’s when Alice really begins to unravel. The novel reveals the gut-wrenching truth: Bear dies while on a boat ride with Alice, who’s drunk and struggling with her own demons. Instead of confronting the tragedy, Peter and the rest of the Van Laar family cover it up, keeping Alice in the dark about Bear’s death.

What follows is heartbreak. Alice can’t let go of Bear. She refuses to believe he’s gone and starts having imaginary conversations with him, desperately holding onto the idea that he’s still out there somewhere. It’s incredibly sad to see someone so lost in grief that they can’t accept the reality of what happened. Her mental health deteriorates, and instead of getting the help she needs, Alice is shunned and placed in a facility—just to hide her away, out of sight. Her story is a painful reminder of how society often punishes women for their emotions, especially when those emotions don’t fit into the neat boxes of propriety. Alice’s suffering at the hands of both her husband and the social constraints around her is heart-wrenching, and it makes you wonder how much could have been different if she had been given the space to heal.

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Judyta Luptack

Judy is a breath of fresh air in this otherwise heavy novel. As the first female investigator in Albany, she’s navigating not just the challenges of solving a complicated case, but also the hurdles of being a woman in a male-dominated profession. From the start, Judy is smart, cautious, and knows her stuff, but she’s also learning on the job, so sometimes she second-guesses herself. There’s this quiet determination about her—she doesn’t make waves, she doesn’t rush into things, but she always gets the job done.

At first, Judy might seem a little unsure of herself, especially in comparison to her more experienced (and often dismissive) male colleagues. But over time, she starts to find her voice and her confidence. She knows that in this world, she has to play it smart—especially when dealing with the Van Laars, a powerful and influential family. Instead of pushing her way in, Judy uses her quiet, non-threatening demeanor to gather information in a way that makes people open up to her. That’s what makes her such a great investigator—she’s a keen observer of human nature and knows how to navigate complex relationships to get what she needs.

Her intelligence shines through as she digs deeper into the case, and by the end, it’s clear that Judy’s empathy also plays a big part in her success. She even decides to protect Barbara’s secret when the time comes, showing that her compassion isn’t just a weakness, but a strength. It’s not easy being a woman in her position, but Judy proves that she can hold her own in a world that often tries to dismiss her.

The God of the Woods Character List

Character	Role in the Story	Key Traits/Characteristics	Key Relationships	Arc/Development

Barbara Van Laar

The missing teen; central to the novel’s plot

Rebellious, independent, searching for connection

Daughter of Peter and Alice; Friend to Tracy

Defies family expectations; desires escape from her wealthy but emotionally distant family; ultimately runs away to seek freedom

Louise Donnadieu

Counselor at Camp Emerson; central to the investigation

Determined, empathetic, hardworking, feels like an outsider

Fiancee of John Paul Jr.; Caretaker of her brother Jesse

Grows stronger through the investigation; evolves from feeling powerless to taking action against the wealthy Van Laars, finding her own strength

Tracy Jewell

Barbara’s bunkmate and friend; provides key information

Quiet, reserved, intelligent, a bookworm, loyal friend

Friend to Barbara; Outsider at camp

Gains confidence as she bonds with Barbara; supports Barbara during the investigation and ultimately helps uncover the truth

Alice Van Laar

Barbara’s mother; deeply affected by grief

Kind but passive, emotionally fragile, neglectful due to her own trauma

Wife of Peter; Mother of Barbara and Bear

Spirals into grief and mental illness after the loss of Bear; struggles with accepting reality and is placed in a mental health facility due to her condition

Peter Van Laar

Barbara’s father; wealthy and emotionally distant

Controlling, socially focused, emotionally detached

Husband to Alice; Father to Barbara and Bear

Manipulative and distant; hides the truth about Bear’s death, prioritizes social status over family well-being

John Paul McLellan Jr.

Louise’s fiancé; associated with the Van Laar family

Privileged, entitled, aggressive, emotionally abusive

Fiance of Louise; Godson to the Van Laars

Fails to meet Louise’s emotional needs; involved in conflict with Lee Towson; becomes a suspect in Barbara’s disappearance

TJ Hewitt

Camp director at Camp Emerson; key figure in the investigation

Caring but tough, has a history with the Van Laars, protective of campers

Family friend of the Van Laars; Close to Louise

Strong, pragmatic leader; faces suspicions about her involvement with Barbara, but remains dedicated to protecting her campers

Judyta Luptack

Rookie detective leading the investigation

Smart, reserved, empathetic, determined, and the first woman detective in Albany

Colleague of Investigator Hayes

Overcomes initial doubts about her abilities; finds strength and confidence as she unravels the truth about Barbara’s disappearance and Bear’s death

Lee Towson

Kitchen staff member; outsider to the Van Laar circle

Local, defies the Van Laar family’s elite status, scrappy

Involved with Louise; Disliked by the Van Laars

Works alongside Louise; caught in a fight with John Paul; plays a minor but pivotal role in uncovering the darker secrets of the Van Laar family

Carl Stoddard

Hired hand on the Van Laar property; previously suspected in Bear’s disappearance

Silent, reluctant to speak, a victim of circumstances

Employed by the Van Laars

Initially blamed for Bear’s disappearance; his death raises suspicions about his involvement, though his role in the story remains murky until later

Victor Hewitt

Father of TJ; former caretaker of the Van Laar property

Older, frail, loyal, and carries the burden of hidden family secrets

Father of TJ; Close to the Van Laars

Protects his family’s secrets at great personal cost; forced to reveal his knowledge about Bear’s death and the cover-up

Jacob Sluiter

A local criminal, suspected of having been involved in Bear’s disappearance

Deceptive, manipulative, cold-blooded, and evasive

No clear personal relationships

Eventually admits to knowing Bear’s location but avoids taking responsibility for his death; plays a key role in uncovering the Van Laar family’s dark secrets

The God of the Woods Ending Explained

Okay, if you’ve made it this far into The God of the Woods, then you know this is a story packed with twists, hidden motives, and a deep dive into family secrets. But let’s break down the ending, because it’s such a rollercoaster and absolutely worth unpacking.

By the time we reach the final chapters, it’s Detective Judy Luptack who takes the lead in unraveling the mysteries of Bear and Barbara’s disappearances. The whole time, Judy’s been facing not only a tough case but also the sexist attitudes of her colleagues—especially her boss, Chief LaRochelle—who dismiss her because she’s a woman. But Judy’s persistence and emotional intelligence are her superpowers. She’s able to connect with people across class lines, whether they’re wealthy elites or working-class folks like Victor Hewitt, the camp caretaker. Judy doesn’t just go after answers; she builds rapport and gets people to trust her, which eventually leads her to the truth.

Speaking of Victor, his perspective adds a really chilling layer to the plot. He’s stuck between a rock and a hard place—he knows Bear’s death was an accident caused by Alice’s alcoholism, but because of his position with the Van Laar family, he’s forced to help cover it up. The Van Laars are more concerned with their reputation than the truth, and they manipulate Victor into complicity. This part really highlights the book’s commentary on the corruptive influence of wealth and class—how the Van Laar family’s obsession with image and status leads to morally questionable actions that hurt everyone involved.

Now, here’s where things get really interesting: the story leads us to believe that TJ, the camp director, might be involved in Barbara’s disappearance, especially since she and Barbara had a secretive, almost too-close relationship. But in a big twist, we learn that TJ isn’t the villain at all. Instead, she’s been protecting Barbara all along. It turns out, TJ’s motivations are driven by integrity and care, not manipulation. She teaches Barbara survival skills and hides her away in a cabin so the teenager can escape the toxic, neglectful world of the Van Laar family. Honestly, the way Moore turns TJ from a suspected bad guy into a protector is one of the most satisfying twists in the book!

And then, the final reveal: Barbara is alive. Yes, after all the searching and speculation, Barbara has been hiding out in the woods, choosing to live in secrecy to escape her oppressive family. She despises the Van Laars’ obsession with status and social climbing. Barbara wants to be free to be herself, away from the smothering expectations of her parents. This was such a powerful moment because it showed that Barbara wasn’t just a victim—she was taking control of her own destiny, even if it meant risking everything.

In the end, the secrets of the past—the cover-ups, the lies, and the betrayals—are all laid bare. But it’s Judy, with her quiet strength and empathy, who gets the last word, earning the respect and recognition she deserves. There’s a certain justice in how everything wraps up, even if the road to get there was messy and complicated. The God of the Woods doesn’t tie everything up in a neat bow, but it offers a kind of catharsis that feels earned.

What do you think about the way everything ended? Were you shocked? Did you expect Barbara to still be alive? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Liz Moore Author Biography

If you’re not already familiar with Liz Moore, she’s a powerhouse in literary fiction—and she’s been on an unstoppable rise. Liz first made waves with her debut novel, The Words of Every Song (2007), inspired by her own experiences as a musician in New York City. The novel was praised for its elegance and was even chosen for Borders’ Original Voices program.

Since then, Liz’s career has taken off in a big way. Her second novel, Heft (2012), earned rave reviews from The New Yorker and O, The Oprah Magazine and made it onto several “Best of 2012” lists, including NPR. By the time her third novel, The Unseen World (2016), hit shelves, it was clear that Liz had established herself as a literary force. It was described as “fiercely intelligent” by The New York Times and was a Best of 2016 pick by The New Yorker, the BBC, and more.

Her 2020 novel Long Bright River became an instant New York Times bestseller and was selected by Barack Obama as one of his favorite books of the year. It’s no surprise the book is being adapted into a limited series starring Amanda Seyfried, set to debut in 2025.

In 2024, Liz continued her winning streak with The God of the Woods, which not only hit the NYT bestseller list but was also selected for multiple book clubs, including Barnes & Noble and The Tonight Show. Even better, it earned a spot on Obama’s Summer Reading List once again!

Liz lives in Philadelphia, where she directs the MFA program at Temple University, and with her writing success, it’s clear she’s just getting started.

The God of the Woods Book Club Ideas

These fun, interactive ideas will not only get your book club members talking about The God of the Woods, but they’ll also give everyone a chance to experience the themes of the book in a hands-on, engaging way. Plus, who doesn’t love a little crafting, scavenger hunting, or secret-exposing fun?

Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

One of the most powerful moments in The God of the Woods is Barbara’s escape to the secluded cabin, a symbol of her yearning for freedom and independence. Why not channel that energy into a fun, interactive outdoor scavenger hunt?

• Create a scavenger hunt based on elements of the book. For example, you could have clues tied to Barbara’s love of punk music, her relationships with characters like Tracy and Lowell, or even the eerie isolation of the woods.
• Hide items like vintage punk band pins, mysterious letters, or small “camping gear” props around your meeting area or in a nearby outdoor space.
• Each clue leads to the next, all culminating in a final “escape” location where you can reveal a hidden message, book quote, or even a surprise snack!

Character Guessing Game

This one is perfect for sparking conversation about the characters’ motives, actions, and how they evolve throughout the novel.

• Write down key characteristics or memorable quotes from different characters on individual cards. For example: “I feel neglected by my family and often seek comfort in nature,” or “I’m the first to notice when something is off, and I’m determined to find answers.”
• Each person draws a card, reads it aloud without revealing the character’s name, and the rest of the group tries to guess who they are.
• Once the character is guessed, the person can elaborate on their character’s motivations and discuss their role in the book.
  This activity will not only be fun, but it will also give everyone a chance to dive deep into the psyche of the characters and discuss their flaws, fears, and desires.

Quotes From The God of the Woods

The following quotes from the book would each make a great talking point as part of a book club discussion. Be sure to bring any quotes you highlighted along the way as well.

“A whole summer, thought Alice. A whole summer without Barbara, her rages, her storms,
the hours she spent weeping aloud, disturbing the staff. All of them pretending politely not to
hear. But they did, every one of them, and Alice did too. How pleasant it would be to have
these months all to herself, while just down the hill her daughter was removed, but safe.”
(Part 1, Chapter 3, Page 19)

“This moment—when all the games were over and everyone did what they wanted, was
always Alice’s favorite of the day. It was the only time when she felt herself to be out from
under the weight of Peter’s judgment. Sufficiently inebriated, she felt charitable and warm,
and she could look around at the beautiful house they owned, and she could sneak down the
quiet hallway and into the quiet room where her beautiful son was sleeping, and give him a
kiss, and she could feel, really feel, how lucky she was to have this lot in life.”
(Part 2, Chapter 17, Page 110)

“[Tracy] needs to go someplace. She thinks it will be a quick trip, just a lark—to see if she
can rule out the place she believes Barbara might have gone. She makes a promise to herself:
if she doesn’t find Barbara there, she’ll confess to the authorities everything she knows.
It’s not a decision she makes lightly. Because Barbara swore Tracy to secrecy. And the fact
that she entrusted Tracy—Tracy!—with such an important secret makes her loath to break
Barbara’s confidence so readily.”
(Part 3, Chapter 22, Page 142)

“[Alice] turned to the section on girls’ names, and then to the page on Barbara. From the
Greek word ‘barbaros,’ said the book, meaning ‘foreign,’ ‘wild,’ or ‘strange.’
Alice looked up with a jolt. How terrible, she thought—how absolutely terrible to name a baby
strange.
The book went on. ‘Barbarian’ derives from the same root, it said cheerfully.”
(Part 4, Chapter 37, Page 210)

“It was wonderful, thought Tracy, having friends like these, who seemed to see the parts
of yourself you worked hardest to hide, and bring them into the light and celebrate them with
a sort of tender ribbing that uplifted more than it put down.”
(Part 6, Chapter 50, Page 301)

“That day, though, Peter reached for her with a tenderness she had never felt before. He
was gentle and forceful, all at once. She lay in bed with him afterward, astonished.
She cried, something she rarely let herself do in front of Peter.
‘What is it?’ he asked her, kindly.
She was crying, she said, because she loved him. And she did, in that moment: she loved him,
and the life they had built together. But she was also crying because of all she’d been
deprived of to that point.”
(Part 6, Chapter 53, Page 318)

“‘Do you know,’ Mrs. Stoddard continues, ‘how many hours of my life I’ve spent in the
woods around Hunt Mountain? It’s practically all I’ve done. My children think I’m crazy. But I
always think—if I could just find something—some of the boy’s clothing of —’ She goes quiet
for a moment, weighing how honest she should be. ‘Or the boy himself,’ she says, finally. ‘Poor
soul.’”
(Part 7, Chapter 75, Page 404)

“It would be career-making for Judy. Finding Barbara Van Laar—finding her alive, no less—
would mean a promotion. Maybe two. It would set her on a path for success. And it would
resolve the question that’s hovered over her head since she began work as an investigator,
the one that every male investigator she’s encountered has thought upon seeing her. Are
women cut out for this work?”
(Part 7, Chapter 94, Page 468)

Popular Highlights

“Rich people, thought Judy—she thought this then, and she thinks it now—generally become most enraged when they sense they’re about to be held accountable for their wrongs.“

“It was funny, she thought, how many relationships one could have with the same man, over the course of a lifetime together.“

“To be a human is complex, and often painful; to be an animal is comfortingly simple and good.”

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:

1. 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!
2. 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

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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

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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

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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.

The God of the Woods Review

If you’re a fan of atmospheric mysteries with a gothic twist, you’re in for a real treat with The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. I just finished it, and let me tell you, this book had me hooked from the very first page. It’s one of those rare reads that you can’t rush through because it demands your full attention. Every word, every twist, every cleverly hidden clue had me pausing to absorb and reflect on the experience. If I could give it 14 stars (one for each cabin at Camp Emerson), I totally would—but alas, 5 will have to do!

Set in the hauntingly beautiful Adirondack Mountains, the novel unfolds around the Van Laar family, their grand summer estate (fittingly named Self-Reliance), and the mysterious disappearance of two of their children. First, we have Peter “Bear” Van Laar IV, who goes missing in 1961 at just 8 years old while hiking with his grandfather. Then, in 1975, Bear’s younger sister Barbara vanishes from her cabin at Camp Emerson. Two missing children from the same family? You can’t help but wonder—is this a family curse or something more sinister at play?

The majority of the story is told from the perspective of teenage girls and women in their twenties, and I found it so refreshing that Moore didn’t shy away from portraying their struggles in such a raw, authentic way. The gothic elements are everywhere: decaying log cabins, spooky legends whispered around the campfire, and a sense of isolation that makes you feel like something’s always lurking in the woods.

The 70s setting at Camp Emerson was especially perfect—there’s something about that nostalgic summer camp vibe that just adds to the suspense. Sneaking around after dark, campfires, sing-alongs, hiking trips, and, of course, an eerie end-of-summer dance. The 1950s and 60s flashbacks are just as compelling, focusing on the Van Laar family’s crumbling marriage and the tragic disappearance of Bear.

Beyond the mystery, the book explores deeper themes of class, privilege, and the suffocating roles women were forced into during the mid-20th century. The Van Laars’ wealth and power create a tense divide between them and the working-class locals, adding layers to an already intense story.

This book is a masterclass in suspense, with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. If I could give it 14 stars (one for each cabin at Camp Emerson!), I would, but 5 will have to do. It’s easily my top read of 2024—and possibly ever. Go pick it up, and prepare to be captivated!

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We hope you found this book club guide helpful!

As a reminder, you can get the guide in a print-friendly format for your book club meeting below!

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Happy reading! ❤️