- What does the book tell us about death? Is death ever justified or is it always wrong? Did you find yourself rooting for one character to succeed, despite plans to kill someone?
- The Pembertons only care about nature if it can give them come cash. Meanwhile, a National Park is being built to preserve nature. Which viewpoint do you think the book supports more? Which is more important—the park or using the trees as a resource?
- Were you surprised by the ending? How does the ending make you feel about Serena's relationship with Pemberton? When do you think she decided on her plan?
- How are women encouraged to behave at this time? What expectations are there for women that men don't have in the novel?
- Why do you think we hear from the workers so often? What does this tell us about social class and perspective? How would the structure be different if their narrative wasn't included?
- What are the differences and similarities between Serena and Rachel? Which character do you relate to more? How do you think they compare to other women during this time (a.k.a. the Great Depression)?