The Pact by Jodi Picoult is an incredibly emotionally intense tale that delves deep into the realm of adolescent angst and the complex nature of parent/child bonds. In this story, we are introduced to Emily Gold and Christopher Harte, the children of two sets of highly successful parents. These parents adore their children and have a reasonable amount of love for their spouses. However, despite all this, they end up facing intolerable losses and come to terms with the limits of how well any of us, especially parents, can truly know another person.

Emily and Christopher have been neighbors since birth, and their identities are so intertwined that they hardly know where one begins and the other ends. Are they friends, siblings, lovers, or some confusing mix of all of the above? Picoult skillfully raises uncomfortable questions about the limits of parental love. How much can we really protect our children? How do we make them strong? When do they become their own person? And how sometimes, love fails in the chaos and confusion of life.

The story takes a dramatic turn when two teenagers in love arrive at the emergency room, both suffering from gunshot wounds. One survives, while the other dies, and only the one remaining knows the truth about what really happened. Was it murder? Suicide? How can intelligence, talent, and privilege, both materially and emotionally, lead to such a disastrous outcome? This is Jodi Picoult's world, and it will surely tug at your heartstrings.

I simply couldn't put this book down. It was, in fact, a rather melancholy one, with the topic of suicide being discussed almost throughout. However, it was definitely a page-turner. It's my favorite murder mystery/love story, boasting great twists and an excellent storyline. I adored it.

In 2017, I had a side note update. I was thinking about this book today and how deeply I loved it. So, I wanted to update my review and add the following.

“You know, the mind is a remarkable thing. Just because you can't see the wound doesn't mean it isn't hurting. It scars all the time, but it heals.”

― Jodi Picoult, The Pact

This is a favorite quote from a favorite book.

I didn't have this book on my to-read list. I came across it at a Goodwill in Florida at the end of one of our trips. I was seeking a book to read during the 12-hour drive home and decided to give it a try. You can't go wrong with a $2 book, unless, of course, you get it for free at the library. Anyhow, this book was extremely good and extremely sad. It's about a girl who commits suicide. That's how it begins, and her best friend is on trial, facing life in prison because they believe he is the one who pulled the trigger, not her. So, throughout the book, they are piecing together her story and reasons. It alternates between the past and the present, building on their friendship. I loved everything about it, except for the sad aspect of suicide. It really tugs at your emotions.

A love story intertwined with a tragedy unfolds in this narrative.

Chris and Emily have known each other since birth, and as teenagers, they became a couple. Their mothers are best friends, and the families are closely tied as neighbors and friends across two generations.

So, when Chris is accused of murdering Emily, the shock is twofold due to the deep friendship between the families.

In the book, we are exposed to numerous aspects of parenting and friendship. How well do we truly know our teenagers? Is it possible that they hide significant parts of their lives from us? How much can we trust them and their friends? What happens to the friendships of the parents in a situation like this? And there are many more such questions.

The parenting issues are indeed important, but the story seems rather unreasonable. As a result, I couldn't really identify with the parents. Emily's character is strange, full of contradictions and unconvincing, which affects all the other characters and the events that form the backbone of the book. I found the issues in the story to be repetitive, making it rather boring.

This is the only Jodi Picoult book I have read, and unfortunately, I am disappointed.

I thought I had read and reviewed every single one of Jodi Picoult's books.

And then, lo and behold, this one was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. What on earth? Had I really missed one?

I could sense from what I read on the back cover that I needed to be prepared. So, with my trusty Kleenex already placed beside me, I was ready to embark on this emotional journey.

Chris and Emily are the best of friends. Their families have been intertwined since they were mere children, and they have lived next door to each other all their lives. It's no wonder they are considered soul pals. But then, at the tender age of 18, Emily is found dead with a single gunshot wound to the head. How can the police possibly believe that Chris didn't intentionally murder her?

However, Chris vehemently insists that it was part of a suicide pact he made with Emily. The only thing is, he couldn't bring himself to follow through and kill himself.

The problem lies in the fact that the police don't have the whole story. Only Chris and Emily know the truth, and unfortunately, Emily is no longer with us.

So, the question remains: Will the police believe Chris? What truly happened to Emily to drive her to such a desperate act of ending her life? As readers, will we ever truly understand Emily's story?

And if we don't believe Chris, should he be charged with murder?

Readers will be taken on a rollercoaster ride through the courtroom, Chris' incarceration, and the profound grief of the families. But most importantly, we will be granted a peek inside the minds of Emily and Chris, trying to understand the turmoil that was going on within them.

And that's what makes this page-turning story not only heart-breaking but also heart-wrenching. Picoult challenges readers with ethical and emotional issues that feel so real, it's impossible not to be moved. So, yes, make sure you have Kleenex at the ready.

Trigger warning: Teenage suicide.

I am likely the sole individual in the world who detested this book with such an intense, white-hot hatred that one might almost wonder if it was the reverse. I'm penning this review for the sake of Lorelle, as it was this very book that lured me into the delightful book club where I endured (or perhaps it endured me) for several enjoyable years.

To summarize, I desired to tell the main character's girlfriend (thankfully, I've forgotten all of their names), "get over yourself!!" It's no spoiler when I disclose that the "pact" in the title involves her asking her boyfriend to assist her in committing suicide. Naturally, a dramatic trial follows. What imbecile couldn't have foreseen that - which is yet another reason why I despise this person for thrusting her boyfriend into unnecessary legal turmoil of the Shawshank Redemption variety.

It nearly terrifies me to realize how little sympathy I have for someone who (it is later revealed) has a somewhat reasonable explanation for her dark thoughts. Yet, isn't that precisely what therapy is for? Evidently, neither she, nor her doting parents or their intertwined best friends' parents had an iota of sense to suggest assistance that was not only accessible but screaming out from the core of their middle-class existence!

Obviously, this passion has more to do with me than with Piccoult. However, I was requested to read another one of her books (If you must know, it was My Sister's Keeper, and it also infuriated me. But to a somewhat lesser extent because I knew what I was getting into at that point, so I accepted some of the responsibility. I will say this, come ON!! Could the ending have been any more implausible and precious (in a bad way)?!! However, I won't give any of it away.)

This was an outstanding book penned by a highly prolific author.

The author has a remarkable ability to tackle always tough and thought-provoking topics that truly engage the readers.

It is the kind of book that is simply perfect for book clubs.

When members of a book club gather to discuss this book, they are bound to have lively and in-depth conversations.

The tough topics presented in the book can spark different perspectives and interpretations among the readers.

It allows for a great opportunity to explore various themes and ideas, and to learn from one another's insights.

Moreover, the author's writing style is engaging and captivating, making it a pleasure to read.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys challenging and intellectually stimulating literature.

It is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide plenty of food for thought.

No parent should ever have to deal with teen suicide!

The Hartes and the Golds had been neighbours and best friends for 18 years. Their children, Emily Gold, a talented young artist, and Chris Harte, a bright, motivated athlete and the star of his high school swimming team, grew up as inseparable best friends. Born only scant weeks apart, they bonded as infants and were as close as two non-siblings could be. What Emily knew, Chris knew and understood. When Chris hurt, Emily suffered and shared his pain. Their attachment, in time, blossomed into a more mature romantic love that everyone expected would end in marriage.

However, Emily faced difficulties in the sexual side of her relationship with Chris. Maybe it was the stress of meeting expectations, or the residual trauma of a past sexual assault, or the feeling that sex with Chris was too much like incest. Stress, confusion, and mental turmoil led to profound depression and despair, and she asked Chris to help her commit suicide.

Readers tempted to be indignant should relax. The suicide occurs in the opening chapter, and the causes are detailed early on. Fans of Jodi Picoult will know that the story is a backdrop for exploring complex issues like teen suicide, the responsibility of those around the teens, the morality of assisted suicide, the nature of friendship, and the stress from parental, teacher, and peer pressure.

While the story wasn't the main focus, Picoult did a great job with the courtroom scenes and Chris's trial for capital murder. The description of his time in prison and his relationship with his cellmate was heartbreaking. However, THE PACT is weaker than some of her other works like MY SISTER'S KEEPER or NINETEEN MINUTES. Lame dialogue, a long exposition, and the implausibility of Chris dealing with the issue alone detract from the novel.

But a bad day with a Jodi Picoult novel is still better than many other books. I'm a fan and can't wait to read another one.

Paul Weiss

Thumb sucking is a common behavior among infants and young children. It is a natural and instinctive way for them to soothe themselves and find comfort.

Most children will outgrow this habit on their own as they get older. However, in some cases, thumb sucking can persist and become a problem.

Persistent thumb sucking may lead to dental issues such as misaligned teeth, an overbite, or an open bite. It can also cause problems with the child's speech development.

Parents should observe their child's thumb sucking behavior and try to understand the reasons behind it. If the child is sucking their thumb out of boredom or anxiety, parents can try to provide alternative activities or ways to relieve stress.

If the thumb sucking habit persists and causes concern, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a dentist. They can provide appropriate advice and treatment options to help the child break the habit and maintain good oral health.

In conclusion, while thumb sucking is a normal behavior in young children, it is important for parents to be aware of its potential consequences and take appropriate measures if necessary.

Well,

I was completely enthralled by this work from the very beginning. I have no hesitation in giving this book a 5-star rating. Although the opening chapter of part 3 was a bit chaotic and childish, fortunately, it was just a very short moment.

The writing is simple, not overly embellished or pretentious. It gets right to the point while still demonstrating superb storytelling skills.

I was eager to know if this was a case of murder, suicide, or an accident (or something else entirely?).

The structure and development of the storyline were truly terrific!

There are numerous dramatic and heartbreaking moments, as well as great family interactions.

I really loved the author's ability to write in a way that makes you feel as if you are close to her characters, regardless of whether they are likeable or not. And it seems that she has a good understanding of human nature.

I even laughed while reading this part of a dialogue: “We are marry. We don’t need to talk to each other“.

This is a super sad story, yet it is told with great skill.

Another winner for me.

Paperback : 564 pages

Ebook (Kobo): 568 pages (default), 154k words

I found this book to be overall more enjoyable than My Sister's Keeper, despite having some similar gripes. The author truly excels at making you believe in a story that, upon closer inspection, makes no sense at all, and at getting you to care about characters who act like complete idiots. If I were to dwell on any of it for too long, it would all seem mind-numbingly stupid. However, I have to admit that the story is ultimately engrossing and satisfying.

PS--This is definitely not a book for the shy or prudish. There is a significant amount of sex in it, including awkward teenage encounters, middle-aged parental escapades, and even a rather disturbing scene of someone being molested in a McDonald's bathroom (yes, we've all had those strange experiences). Perhaps this stood out to me more because I was listening to the audiobook and the narrator sounded like a gay Casey Kasem (is that redundant?). It's not the kind of person you want to hear narrating a sex scene every five minutes, saying things like "Oh, yes, give it to me." You also have to wonder why there is so much sex in a book about suicide. Call me old-fashioned, but yuck. So why am I giving this 4 stars? That's precisely why Jodi Picoult is a gazillionaire and I'm not. She has some sort of magical powers, like a Jedi.

PPS to English teachers--Take careful note of the blatant borrowing of the foreshadowing scene from Of Mice and Men where Candy can't bring himself to kill his dog. Steinbeck must be turning in his grave.

*Edit from my original review, which used a less appropriate term. A couple of commenters took offense, and rightfully so. As an English teacher, I should know better to be more cautious with my word choices.

For me, her best book is truly a masterpiece.

I absolutely loved the way she artfully split the story between the girl's side of view and the boy's.

This unique narrative approach added a layer of complexity and depth to the tale.

Even though she reveals in the end what really happened, it still leaves you walking away unsure of who was right.

The ambiguity keeps you thinking long after you've turned the last page.

It makes you question your own biases and interpretations.

The characters are so well-developed that you can't help but empathize with both of them.

You understand their motives and the reasons behind their actions, yet you still find yourself in a quandary.

This book is not just a simple read; it's a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and relationships.

It challenges you to look beyond the surface and consider all the possible perspectives.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story that makes them think.

It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys literature that leaves a lasting impression.

I'm in a real dilemma when it comes to rating this book. It's a toss-up between 3 and 4 stars.

This book presents a deeply depressing story that has stayed with me for days. However, it was extremely long. At times, I found myself continuously shouting, "I just want to know if it's a murder or a suicide."

I must admit that I was surprised by the information that emerged, particularly in the court scenes. I couldn't determine who was truly guilty and kept changing my mind about what had occurred. Normally, I'm not a fan of court scenes, but Jodi did an outstanding job of making them fast-paced and engaging. I would rate the first half of the book as a 2-star, while the second half was more of a 4-star. The unfortunate aspect is that if I hadn't had to read this for my Patreon, I probably would have given up before reaching the good part.

I'm considering reading "19 Minutes" next to see if I'll continue with this author. Maybe that book will provide a more conclusive answer to whether I'm a fan of Jodi's work or not.