House Rules; Jodi Picoult
House Rules takes place in Vermont, and the major players of the story are Emma Hunt, and her two teenage sons. Jacob is eighteen and has Asperger's syndrome, and his brother Theo, is a normal fifteen year old boy, but one whose childhood has suffered somewhat as a result of his brother's condition. For life revolves around Jacob and the importance of keeping order to his life. He lives a life of routines. For example, he eats only certain colored food on certain days, watches the same shows on television at the same time each day (CSI is his favorite). In fact, Jacob possesses so much knowledge on the subject of forensics, he could truly aid the investigators. However, although Jacob is very intelligent, what he sorely lacks is social skills --common in people with Aspergers. To help Jacob, his mother Emma hires, Jess, a pretty grad student to tutor Jacob in developing social skills. Without giving away too much of the plot, I will just say that the story ends with a murder trial, and I was not disappointed by the ending. I can honestly say that this novel held my interest throughout.
I have read all of Jodi Picoult's books, many shined, but others not so much. This book made me glad that I had not given up on this author. This review is based on the audio book which was borrowed from my local library. The audio book made this story a home run for me. It was fantastic, as it was narrated by five different readers: Mark Turetsky, Nicole Poole, Andy Paris, Christopher Welch and Rick Orlow. Each reader so beautifully captured the characters perfectly. The chapters alternate with multiple viewpoints. Picoult did a terrific job portraying Jacob, a teen with Aspergers, and what his life and the life of his family was like as a result.
Although I have read other books on A.S.(non fiction): "Born of a Blue Day and Look Me in the Eye", this novel really made you feel like Jacob could be part of your family. His high IQ, his obsession with routine and order, his literal interpretation of everything, his inability to comprehend metaphors, inappropriate social interactions and his self absorbed, flat affect -- all were pitch perfect. This novel is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. (5/5 stars - Library audio book)
I've only read a few of Picoult's books and enjoyed all of them, so I really want to read this one!
ReplyDeleteI feel the exact way about Piccolet. When she's hot, she is mesmerizing.
ReplyDeleteYou've read all of Jodi Picoult's books? Wow! I've only read My Sister's Keeper, but I'd like to read more. This one sounds very interesting. Thanks for a well-written review.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you ... Picoult's books can be up and down but I've been hearing great things about this one.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way about Picoult. After reading Change of Heart, I decided I was through. But My Sister's Keeper was one of my all-time favorite audios, and this one appeals to me, so I may have to read (or listen) after all.
ReplyDeleteNOt read this author at all! Can u believe it/?! I know, I have to. And this one has piqued my interest too.
ReplyDeleteI will definitely get my copy :)
I don't know when (or even if) I will have eye surgery, but since I've been curious about this book I'll get it on audio.
ReplyDeleteI lke the semi-trend toward multiple readers, similar to radio in the old, old days.
I haven't read any of Jodi's books. Which were your favorites?
ReplyDeleteI read and enjoyed The Pact but I haven't read any of her books since then, though I have meant to. She is definitely one of those polarizing authors.
ReplyDeleteI have to get on the wait list at my library for this book. Thanks for reminding me!
ReplyDeleteKim...House Rules, My Sister's Keeper, The Pact, Handle With Care, Salem Falls, and Mercy were some of the ones I liked a lot.
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you liked this one. I haven't read Picoult in awhile, mostly because she seems to use the same formula and I needed a break. I haven't given up on her books, though.
ReplyDelete--Anna
Diary of an Eccentric
I'm really pleased to see that you enjoyed this book. I have reserved a copy from the library, so hopefully I'll get a copy at some point in the near future!
ReplyDeleteI have not been able to get into Jodi's books at all. (and, that's really bad - considering she is a fellow New Hampshire person - and not that far from me)
ReplyDeleteSo, you think I could get into this one???
I'm glad you liked this one of hers Diane. I've been debating on whether or not to read it as I've been disappointed in a few of her latest ones.
ReplyDelete5/5??? So I am hoping that I too will love this one. Her last one left me feeling bleh about her writing and maybe she's starting to come around and be that old Jodi I used to love! Can't wait for it to come into the library!
ReplyDeleteI have borrowed one of her books to read, thanks to all the rave reviews of bloggers about her books!Glad you enjoyed this one!
ReplyDeleteHarvee
Book Dilettante
I know a lot of people love Picoult but I've kind of dug my heels in for some reason. I think it's because of the hit and miss feeling that I get for so many of her books. Maybe I need to finally give her a try!
ReplyDeleteI like J. Picoult's books-not all but most and I just found this one at my local library's used book store. You've just made me very excited to read it-thanks!
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to read something else by Picoult after My Sisters Keeper, and I'm really interested by the Asbergers plot. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteI read two of Picoult's books, and have been keeping away from her books since. Simply because I don't want to start a book, knowing I will cry. :) But this one has been on my radar for a while, and I probably will give it a try!
ReplyDeleteI agree - Picoult is hit and miss. Based on your review, maybe I'll encourage our library to purchase it. Thanks, Diane!
ReplyDeleteI've never read anything by Picoult, but I do know that my daughter has, and loves her work. I might have to try to pick this book up. It looks like an interesting read. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI loved Born on a Blue Day, so I'm looking forward to this one. I'm so happy to see such a high recommendation!
ReplyDeletePicoult can be a little hit or miss for me too, so I'm glad to hear this one is good!
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