Reviews Wish You Were Here" is a novel by Jodi Picoul
"Wish You Were Here" is a novel by Jodi Picoult that tells the story of a family grappling with grief and the complexities of human relationships. The book follows the lives of the McCullough family after the sudden death of their daughter and sister, Diana. The story is told from the perspective of multiple characters, including Diana's mother, brother, and sister, as well as her husband's new partner and the man who caused the accident that took Diana's life.
One of the main themes of the book is the way people deal with grief and how it affects their relationships with each other. Picoult's exploration of grief is particularly poignant in "Wish You Were Here" as each character experiences it differently. Diana's mother, Mariah, becomes obsessed with finding a way to communicate with her daughter in the afterlife, while her sister, Jules, turns to drugs to numb the pain. Meanwhile, Diana's husband, Colin, is struggling to move on with his life while still mourning his wife's death.
Another theme that Picoult explores in "Wish You Were Here" is the power of secrets and the consequences of keeping them hidden. The novel is full of secrets, both big and small, that are slowly revealed throughout the story. These secrets have a profound impact on the relationships between the characters, and the novel shows how destructive they can be when they are not brought to light.
Picoult's writing style is engaging and emotional, and she has a talent for creating complex, flawed characters that are easy to relate to. The novel is also well-researched, with detailed descriptions of various medical conditions and the legal system, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
One of the strengths of "Wish You Were Here" is the way Picoult weaves together the different perspectives of the characters to create a cohesive and compelling narrative. The story is told in a non-linear fashion, with flashbacks and memories interspersed throughout the main plotline. While this can be confusing at times, it also adds depth to the characters and their relationships.
However, some readers may find the plot of "Wish You Were Here" to be predictable or formulaic. The novel deals with many of the same themes and plot devices that are common in Picoult's other books, such as courtroom drama and moral dilemmas. While this may be a turn-off for some readers, it also means that fans of Picoult's other work will likely enjoy "Wish You Were Here".
In conclusion, "Wish You Were Here" is a powerful and emotional novel that explores the themes of grief, family, and secrets with sensitivity and insight. While it may not be for everyone, fans of Jodi Picoult's other work will likely enjoy this book, and it is a great choice for readers who enjoy character-driven stories that explore complex human relationships.