Best Jodi Picoult Books: Top 10 Novels You Should Read

If you’re a fan of thought-provoking, emotionally charged novels, then you’re likely familiar with the best Jodi Picoult books. As a bestselling author and novelist, Picoult has written over 20 books, each one delving into complex themes and characters that leave readers pondering long after the last page has been turned. In this article, we’ll explore the best Jodi Picoult books that have captivated readers and critics alike.

Picoult’s career and writing style have been shaped by her experiences as a student, teacher, and mother. Her books often feature multiple narrators and non-linear timelines, with each chapter revealing a new layer of the story. She’s known for her extensive research into the topics she writes about, which range from controversial medical ethics to school shootings. Her writing style is clear and concise, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story without getting bogged down by unnecessary details.

So, which Jodi Picoult novels should you add to your reading list? We’ll be taking a closer look at the top Jodi Picoult books that have resonated with readers and critics alike, examining the themes and characters that make them so compelling. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Picoult’s work or a newcomer looking for a thought-provoking read, this article has got you covered.

Key Takeaways

• Jodi Picoult is a bestselling author and novelist known for her emotionally charged and thought-provoking books.
• Her writing style is clear and concise, with extensive research into the topics she writes about.
• We’ll be exploring the top Jodi Picoult books that have resonated with readers and critics alike, examining the themes and characters that make them so compelling.

Career and Writing Style of Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult is an American author who has written over 25 novels, including bestsellers like “My Sister’s Keeper” and “Nineteen Minutes.” She has also written several young adult novels, children’s books, comics, and nonfiction works. Her novels often explore controversial topics such as murder, romance, and family relationships.

Picoult studied creative writing at Princeton University and graduated with an A.B. in English in 1987. She wrote her senior thesis on a 320-page-long novel called “Developments.” After college, she worked as a copywriter and then as a technical writer before pursuing a career in fiction writing.

Picoult’s writing style is known for its emotional depth and complex characters. She often writes from multiple perspectives, allowing readers to see the story from different angles. Her novels also frequently incorporate legal and medical themes, reflecting her interest in these fields.

In addition to her novels, Picoult has also written several young adult novels, including “Between the Lines” and “Off the Page,” which she co-wrote with her daughter, Samantha van Leer. She has also written children’s books, including “Wonder Woman: Love and Murder” and “The Spark of Life.”

Overall, Jodi Picoult is a prolific and talented author whose works have resonated with readers around the world. Whether you’re looking for a gripping murder mystery or a heartwarming family drama, you’re sure to find a Jodi Picoult book that will capture your imagination.

Best Jodi Picoult Books

If you’re a fan of Jodi Picoult, you know that her books are often emotionally charged, thought-provoking, and explore complex issues. Here are some of her top novels that you should definitely check out:

My Sister’s Keeper

This novel tells the story of a family who has a daughter with leukemia and their decision to have another child as a potential donor. The story is narrated by multiple characters, including the sick daughter and her sister who was conceived to save her. It’s a heart-wrenching story that explores the ethics of medical decision-making and the lengths that parents will go to save their children.

Nineteen Minutes

This novel explores the aftermath of a school shooting and the events leading up to it. It’s a powerful story that delves into issues of bullying, gun control, and mental illness. The novel is told from multiple perspectives, including the shooter, his victims, and their families.

Small Great Things

This novel tells the story of a Black nurse who is accused of causing the death of a White newborn in her care. The story explores issues of racism, privilege, and justice. It’s a timely and important novel that will challenge readers to examine their own biases.

The Storyteller

This novel tells the story of a young woman who befriends an elderly man who was a Nazi officer during World War II. The novel explores issues of guilt, forgiveness, and the power of storytelling. It’s a beautifully written novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

House Rules

This novel tells the story of a young man with Asperger’s syndrome who is accused of murder. The story explores issues of disability, justice, and family dynamics. It’s a gripping and insightful novel that will challenge readers to rethink their assumptions about people with disabilities.

Leaving Time

This novel tells the story of a young woman who is searching for her mother, a renowned elephant researcher who disappeared years ago. The story explores issues of grief, memory, and the bond between mother and daughter. It’s a beautifully written novel that will transport you to the world of elephants and the people who study them.

These are just a few of Jodi Picoult’s top novels. Each one explores complex issues and will leave you thinking long after you finish reading.

Themes and Characters in Picoult’s Books

Jodi Picoult’s books are known for their complex characters and thought-provoking themes. Her stories often explore controversial issues such as racism, prejudice, and social justice. Here are some of the common themes and characters that you can expect to encounter in Picoult’s books:

Racism and Prejudice

Picoult’s books often tackle issues of racism and prejudice. In “Small Great Things,” the story follows Ruth Jefferson, an African American labor and delivery nurse who is accused of causing the death of a white supremacist’s baby. The book explores the complexities of race relations and the impact of systemic racism on individuals and society.

Forgiveness and Redemption

Forgiveness and redemption are recurring themes in Picoult’s books. In “The Storyteller,” Sage Singer, a young baker battling physical and emotional scars, forms an unlikely friendship with an elderly customer, Josef Weber, a former SS officer who confesses to her that he was a part of the Holocaust. The book explores the question of how far we should go to forgive someone and what it means to seek redemption.

Family and Relationships

Family and relationships are central to many of Picoult’s books. In “My Sister’s Keeper,” the story follows the Fitzgerald family as they navigate the complexities of having a child with leukemia and the ethical dilemmas that arise when their daughter Anna is asked to donate a kidney to her sister Kate. The book explores the bonds of family and the lengths that we will go to protect the ones we love.

Justice and the Legal System

Picoult’s books often delve into issues of justice and the legal system. In “Small Great Things,” Kennedy McQuarrie, a white public defender, takes on Ruth Jefferson’s case and is forced to confront her own prejudices and biases. The book explores the role of the legal system in perpetuating systemic racism and the importance of confronting our own biases.

Illness and Death

Illness and death are common themes in Picoult’s books. In “My Sister’s Keeper,” the story follows Kate Fitzgerald, a young girl with leukemia, and her family as they struggle to come to terms with her illness and the impact that it has on their lives. The book explores the complexities of illness and death and the impact that it has on individuals and families.

Beekeeping Business

In “The Keeper of the Bees,” the story follows a young World War I veteran named James Lewis who finds solace in beekeeping after returning from the war. The book explores the healing power of nature and the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life.

Bullying and Suicide Pact

In “Nineteen Minutes,” the story follows a high school student named Peter Houghton who is bullied and tormented by his classmates. The book explores the impact of bullying on individuals and society and the tragic consequences that can arise when individuals feel powerless and alone.

Bone Marrow Match

In “Perfect Match,” the story follows Nina Frost, a prosecutor who is forced to confront her own beliefs about justice and revenge when her son is sexually assaulted. The book explores the lengths that we will go to protect our loved ones and the ethical dilemmas that arise when seeking justice.

Jodi Picoult’s books are known for their complex characters and thought-provoking themes. Whether you are interested in issues of social justice, family dynamics, or the complexities of the legal system, there is something for everyone in her books.

Collaborations and Co-Authorships

Jodi Picoult has collaborated with other authors on several occasions to produce some of her best works. Here are some of her notable collaborations and co-authorships:

Off the Page

Jodi Picoult teamed up with her daughter, Samantha van Leer, to write “Off the Page.” The book is a sequel to their previous collaboration, “Between the Lines,” and tells the story of a fairy tale prince who comes to life and falls in love with a teenage girl. The book explores the idea of what happens when a fictional character comes to life and has to navigate the real world.

Between the Lines

“Between the Lines” is the first book in a series of young adult novels co-written by Jodi Picoult and her daughter, Samantha van Leer. The book tells the story of a teenage girl who falls in love with a prince from a fairy tale book. The book explores the idea of what happens when fictional characters come to life and have their own desires and dreams.

Shine

Jodi Picoult and her daughter-in-law, author and activist Lara Adekola, teamed up to write “Shine.” The book is a young adult novel that explores themes of racism, police brutality, and social justice. The story follows a teenage girl named Piper who becomes an activist after her best friend is killed by a police officer.

Jodi Picoult’s collaborations and co-authorships have produced some of her most unique and thought-provoking works. Whether she’s working with family members or other authors, her collaborations always offer a fresh perspective on important issues.

Fan Reception and Reviews

Jodi Picoult has a loyal fan base who eagerly await each new release. Her books have received overwhelmingly positive reviews on Goodreads, with many fans praising her ability to tackle complex social issues with empathy and nuance.

According to Goodreads members, some of the best Jodi Picoult books include “My Sister’s Keeper,” “The Storyteller,” and “Small Great Things.” Fans appreciate her ability to weave together multiple perspectives and create characters that feel real and relatable.

However, some readers have criticized Picoult for using a formulaic approach in her storytelling, with similar themes and plot points appearing in many of her books. Others have taken issue with her portrayal of certain marginalized groups, such as people of color and those with disabilities.

Overall, Jodi Picoult’s books have garnered a strong following among fans of contemporary fiction, particularly those who enjoy stories that explore complex ethical and moral dilemmas. If you’re a fan of Picoult’s work, you may also enjoy books by authors like Kristin Hannah, Liane Moriarty, and Celeste Ng.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top-rated Jodi Picoult books according to Goodreads?

If you’re looking for some of Jodi Picoult’s best books, according to Goodreads users, here are a few to consider: “My Sister’s Keeper,” “Small Great Things,” “The Storyteller,” “Nineteen Minutes,” and “Leaving Time.”

What is the most popular Jodi Picoult book?

“My Sister’s Keeper” is one of Jodi Picoult’s most popular books. It’s a heart-wrenching story about a family’s struggle to save their daughter’s life.

What is the best Jodi Picoult book for beginners?

If you’re new to Jodi Picoult’s writing, “Small Great Things” is a great place to start. It’s a powerful novel that explores issues of race and privilege in America, and it’s one of her most critically acclaimed books.

What are some Jodi Picoult books that have been on the New York Times bestseller list?

Jodi Picoult has had many books on the New York Times bestseller list over the years. Some of her most popular titles include “My Sister’s Keeper,” “Small Great Things,” “The Storyteller,” “Nineteen Minutes,” and “Leaving Time.”

Who are some authors similar to Jodi Picoult?

If you enjoy Jodi Picoult’s writing, you might also like books by authors such as Kristin Hannah, Liane Moriarty, Diane Chamberlain, and Lisa Genova.

What age group would enjoy Jodi Picoult’s books?

Jodi Picoult’s books are generally written for an adult audience, but some of her books may be appropriate for mature teenagers. Her books often deal with complex social issues and may contain mature themes and language.