64 pages 2 hours read

Lucy Foley

The Guest List

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Introduction

Teacher Introduction

The Guest List

  • Genre: Fiction; mystery novel
  • Originally Published: 2020
  • Reading Level/Interest: College/Adult
  • Structure/Length: Approx. 320 pages; approx. 10 hours, 22 minutes on audio
  • Protagonist and Central Conflict: The novel is a mystery that takes place on a small island with a large cast of characters. The central conflict revolves around a murder on the night of a wedding, as everyone’s past and secrets come together amidst a storm.
  • Potential Sensitivity Issues: Death; violence; addiction; suicide; grief

Lucy Foley, Author

  • Bio: Born in England in 1986; author and editor; studied at Durham University and University College London; known for her mystery and historical fiction; currently resides in London
  • Other Works: The Book of Lost and Found (2015); The Invitation (2016); Last Letter from Istanbul (2018); The Hunting Party (2019); The Paris Apartment (2022)
  • Awards: New York Times Best Thrillers of 2020 (2020); Goodreads Choice Award for Mystery & Thriller (2020); CWA Gold Dagger Award Longlist (2020)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

  • The Power of Deceptive Appearances
  • Haunting as Manifestations of the Past
  • The Importance of Family

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

  • Gain an understanding of the literary context of the genre and setting in which The Guest List is situated.