Bookish Review: Second Glance

I think this may be my favorite Jodi Picoult novel yet (she's written a lot more than I've read, but I have read a few). Her books are usually somewhat hard to read and tackle difficult topics. This one focuses on a ghost story, which was an interesting departure. It also touches on suicide, eugenics, selective breeding, rare diseases, discrimination against American Indians, and love--so, you know, nothing too complicated or controversial! It's set in Vermont and weaves together stories from the 1930s through today, mainly focusing on the impact loved ones can have on us, what family means, and some paranormal activity. Quite an enjoyable read and not as bleak as some she's written. Oh, and the eugenics information she includes is based on real-life happenings in the 30s, which I had not heard about. Pretty interesting--and scary.

Bookish Review: Sing You Home

Jodi Picoult likes to handle difficult and controversial topics in her fiction, and this one is no exception. She covers infertility, miscarriages, the dissolution of a marriage, in vitro fertilization, homosexuality, gay marriage, etc. A lot of controversy packed in one book! The book is a pretty quick read. She tells the story from varying perspectives: our protagonist, her husband (and then ex-husband), and her friend (and then wife). I doubt this book will change the mind of anyone who is against gay marriage or adoption by homosexual couples, but it does present both viewpoints on the topic. It also has a surprisingly happy ending. A nice read.

Disclaimer: I received an advance electronic copy of this book from the publisher for the purposes of review. Free access to the book did not affect my opinion. For more information on Simon & Schuster's eGalley program, please visit www.galleygrab.com.