This week Jodi Picoult releases her latest novel. Picoult is always a bestseller and is a favorite with book clubs. So, are her books good or just popular?
This is the second in a new series -- "Love 'Em or Leave 'Em" -- which will encourage you to dis' or defend popular authors. I'll share my take, and you can leave a comment about whether or not you agree.
I have pretty strong opinions about Jodi Picoult novels. I can see why they appeal to some people: they are generally fast paced page turners that deal with hot button issues. Book clubs might like how easy it is to discuss the topics Picoult presents since they tend to be subjects that draw out strong opinions. I do not, however, like Jodi Picoult novels. I think they are emotionally manipulative, unrealistically sad and melodramatic, and unbalanced in their portrayal of sensitive issues. I also think they are formulaic. My usual advice is that if you want to read a Jodi Picoult novel, browse this list of all her published books and pick the topic that most interests you. Might as well insert your area of interest into Picoult's formula, which goes something like this: family drama + social issue + court scene + crazy twist at the end = crying and throwing book.
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Comments
I can see your point about her formulaic plots and I do believe that real life never follows a simple plot, but Jodi Picoult does something that makes her books something special. The simple fact that she never shies away from a subject and gives her readers insight into topics people may not want to deal with is rare talent. Her writing strikes through bone and pierces the heart, and may even pull at its strings for entertainment value – so what! This stuff really does happen and we should not shy away from understanding all sides to any dispute or topic. I say go Jodi!
I totally agree with you Erin – Picoult novels are sensationalist pap. Similar to experiencing a car accident – you really don’t want to look, but it’s impossible to turn your head away, to resist the urge to indulge in someone else’s pain.
Glad to see that you share my feelings about Picoult–I read maybe 4 of her books and they quickly became “formula” and like you said manipulative and overly dramatic.
Thank you! Financial success does not necessarily equal great literature. I’ve had to take some hits for my view of Picoult’s formulaic approach and smarmy, yes I said it, writing style.
Thanks for validation.
I read a bunch of Picoult’s books, but I think I’m done with them. Yes, formulaic sums them up, and I got tired of depressing families. I haven’t read the last 3 or 4, and doubt that I’ll pick up another.
I find Jodi’s novels to be exactly what I want….something to take my mind off of whatever is going on in my life at that time.
I have read almost all of her books. She has evolved into a far better writing style. I just bought her new one and I’m looking forward to it. I find Anita Shreve to be viable for the same reasons. I read a lot of political non fiction…which is just real life Picoult drama and issue oriented.
Why is it always a situation involving the justice system? God, honestly that gets a bit tiresome.
I hate Jodi Picoult books for the same reasons you stated. They are very formulaic and melodramatic with unrealistic twists.