The Orphanage by the Lake

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Discuss what you liked most and least about the book.
• Were you surprised by the plot twist at the end of the book? Did you suspect Andrew or Sonia at any point? Why or why not?
• Does The Orphanage by the Lake remind you of other mysteries you have read? How is Hazel Cho similar to, or different from, other fictional detectives?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• What scenes in the book evoked a strong emotional response from you, if any?
• Have you ever misjudged someone in the way that Hazel misjudges others? Did Hazel’s reactions in the moments when she realizes she was wrong about someone feel true to your experience?
• Hazel’s desire for justice pushes her to overcome the obstacles in her way. Are there moments in your life when your values have helped you overcome hardships in a similar way?
• Hazel struggles with feeling inadequate even as she puts on a strong, confident front to the outside world. Is this a feeling you can relate to? Why or why not?
• The characters in The Orphanage by the Lake have to decide whether to conform to or break from the expectations their family has for them.