About this book: (blurb from Penguin Random House SA)
What if Shakespeare was a woman?
1581. Emilia Bassano is allowed no voice of her own, but finds a way to bring her work to the stage secretly. Yet by paying a man for the use of his name, she will write her own out of history. His name? William Shakespeare. Now. Playwright Melina Green is determined to see one of her shows make the stage, but it appears a woman’s voice is still worth less than a man’s. Women have long been written out of history, but what if they held the pen all along?
ISBN 9780241676059
Format Trade Paperback
Recommended Price R390.00
Published September 2024
My Thoughts
My Thoughts“There was such magic in language. It could bring you to tears, pull you to the edge of your seat, make you sigh with relief. It could draw you out of the world when you needed to escape, and at other times hold up a looking glass to the world as it was.”
Jodi Picoult is known for her meticulously researched and thought-provoking novels, and By Any Other Name is no exception. This book beautifully intertwines the stories of two women from different eras, both grappling with societal constraints and striving to make their mark in the world of theatre.
“There once was a girl who became invisible so that her words might not be.”
Strengths:
• Historical Accuracy: The book’s portrayal of the 1500s is vivid and engaging, inspiring readers to learn more about the real Emilia Bassano.
• Dual Timelines: The alternating chapters between Melina and Emilia provide a rich, layered narrative that keeps readers invested in both storylines.
• Complex Characters: Emilia is a particularly compelling character, her chapters filled with depth and historical detail.
While the book tackles important issues like feminism, racism, and homophobia, these themes can sometimes feel forced rather than naturally integrated into the story. The modern storyline with Melina can feel trite at times, and I found the pacing a bit off in some parts of the book.
Despite some minor flaws, By Any Other Name is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and Shakespeare. Picoult’s exploration of the struggles faced by women in both the past and present is both timely and relevant, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf.
“It does not matter what you see when you look at me, because you will never know me the way I know myself. And even if I am the only person in the world with that knowledge, it does not make it any less real.
With thanks to Penguin Random House SA.
Read an extract here: Extract: By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult Penguin Random House South Africa
About the author:
Jodi Picoult · novels about family, relationships, love, & more
@roelia_reads #LastNowNext update! Last book read – By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult @Penguin Random House SA Reading now – The Wren in The Holly Library by K.A. Linde @Pan Macmillan SA Next on my reading list – Intermezzo by Sally Rooney @Exclusive Books (published by @Jonathan Ball Publishers) What is on your reading list? Any of these #newreleases ? ❤️ #RoeliaReads #OnMyBookshelf #bookreviewer #JodiPicoult #KALinde #SallyRooney ♬ Courageous End – DJ BAI
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