Jodi Picoult

Vanishing Act

by Jodi Picoult

"Does it really matter why I did it?

By now you've already formed our own impression. you believe that an act committed a lifetime ago defines a man, or you believe that a person's past has nothing to do with his future. You think I am either a hero, or a monster. Maybe knowing more about the circumstances will make you think differently about me, but it won't change what happened twenty-eight years ago."

Delia Hopkins' mother passed away when she was young. She and her father got in the car and drove across the country to New Hampshire. A little state and the perfect hiding place.

Twenty years later, there is a knock on the door and Delia's father is arrested on kidnapping charges. Delia is caught in the middle of her loving father and the law. But why did her father take her, and why does he show no remorse for his actions? Delia has had a good life. She's wondered and dreamed of her mother, but it hasn't stopped her from living a good life. 

The book follows Delia and her daughter, along with best friend Fitz, and lawyer boyfriend Eric, to New Mexico, where the trial will be held.

Picoult has a wonderful way of blurring the lines of right and wrong. Her story is told from multiple viewpoints, helping to keep your mind jumping as you struggle with whose side you are on. And just when you've chosen a side, she'll make you question your choice.

Plain Truth

"Suddenly, Lizzie felt profoundly sorry for her. Life never stopped for death; she should know that better than most...."I know this must be very difficult for you, but I'm going to have to ask you some questions about your baby.

Sarah Fisher raised her eyes to meet Lizzie's. "It's not my baby," she said. "I have no idea where it came from."

Detective Lizze stumbles upon the scene of an amish newborn left to die in a barn. The child doesn't belong to Mrs. Fisher, an amish wife, but in fact to her daughter Katie. Katie is in complete denial despite all the facts pointing to her. Lizzie will be left to unravel the twisted tale of secrets as an outsider in a secretive culture.

This is a unique look into an extremely interesting lifestyle. You will meet those sticking strictly to their religion; those who have have turned their backs on their families; and those tiptoeing a thin line in-between. And the main question will still remain: was this a stillborn or a murder? And what, exactly, are they all covering up?