Welcome To The Banksia Book Club - Low commitment, relaxed and designed to fit around real life.
August Read - The God Of The Woods
ANEW YORK TIMESBESTSELLER and ONE OF THENEW YORK TIMES’S NOTABLE BOOKS OF THE YEARA
NEW YORK TIMES "BEST THRILLER" and "BEST CRIME NOVEL" OF THE YEAR
PEOPLE MAGAZINE’S #1 BOOK OF THE YEAR
Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found.
As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.
Free Tickets will be available to purchase before each event to confirm numbers with the venue - check our instagram stories for more details.
A community book club for those who love reading - or want to read more - without the pressure. Join from near or far, dip in and out as it suits you, and enjoy thoughtful conversation, connection, and a shared love of books.
How it works
Our book club is designed to be flexible and easy to be part of:
• Read at your own pace - no pressure to finish every book
• Join discussions when it suits you, or simply follow along
• Come along to in-person meet-ups, or connect online
• A mix of regulars and new faces - always welcome
Meet-Ups
We’ll host regular, relaxed catch-ups in Ballina and surrounding areas.
If you’re based elsewhere, you’re always welcome to connect with others locally and organise smaller meet-ups.
Join the group chat or follow along for updates.
Community Guidelines
To keep this a welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone:
• Open to all - this is a community for near and far
• Be kind - no hate, discrimination, or aggressive behaviour
• Respect the chat - with a large group, please keep messages considered and avoid flooding
• No spoilers - we’re all reading at different paces
• Mute freely - check in when it suits you
Support Local
We encourage members to shop locally where possible.
We’ve partnered with The Book Warehouse in Ballina and Lismore - book club members receive 10% off when you show your membership pass in-store.
FAQs
Do I need to finish the book to attend?
Not at all - you’re welcome to come along even if you’re still reading or just want to listen.
Can I join if I’m not local?
Yes - our community is open to everyone. You’re welcome to join discussions online or connect with others near you.
What if I don’t like the book this month?
No problem at all. You’re always welcome to read something else and join us anyway - sharing different reads is part of the fun.
What kind of books will we read?
A mix of genres, chosen for their ability to spark conversation and enjoyment.
How often are meet-ups held?
We’re planning regular monthly catch-ups, with our first taking place in May. Date TBC
Do I need to book for meet-ups?
Details will be shared closer to each event. Some gatherings may require bookings depending on the venue.
