‘Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get’…
There are lots of movie quotes in Jodi Picoult’s new novel ‘House Rules’, but this one would not describe her novels. With Picoult novels you do know what you will get, to a certain degree. There is often a medical condition or a moral issue, a court case, and a family drama. The book is often written from the perspective of several different characters in the story, and explores relationships and emotions in real depth and intricacy. There are usually a few twists and turns in the story, sometimes ones that make you gasp. One thing is absolutely sure, Picoult always keeps you guessing till the very end.
I’ve read more than a dozen of Picoult’s novels and if I’m honest, some I’ve enjoyed more than others. My favourite so far has always been My Sister’s Keeper, but I would have to now say that House Rules may have challenged that. I found Picoult’s writing clean and less cluttered in this book and the ending made good sense.
In House Rules, Asperger’s Syndrome is featured and in the process of reading you learn alot about it. One review I read written by someone with Asperger’s herself, commented that Picoult’s research may have been too good and she wanted to include too much. The reviewer felt that the poor character of Jacob displayed ALL the possible characteristics of the condition, which is not realistic. There are two other books written about this topic which are probably better written – The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime by Mark Haddon, and Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork.
Having said all that, there is nothing quite like settling in with a Jodi Picoult novel. You know you are in for the duration and it will be enjoyable!
Joanne's Reading Blog 
HI Joanne,
Doris is a friend of mine from Covenant Life, and through another mutual friend. She had mentioned your blog on Sunday when we were inviting her to join a book group of ladies from CLC that meets once a month. We were delighted when she agreed to join us for this month’s book, “The Kitchen House”.
We are always looking for good reads, and it seems that your blog will be a source of inspiration. Thank you!
In looking over your 2010 list I saw many familiar reads, and ones I would like to read. In reply to the Picoult book about Asburger’s Syndrome, I would like to recommend to you a book written by a man who has this syndrome: “Born on a Blue Day” by Daniel Tammet. Very, very interesting! and, a good read.
Yours, Nancy