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By Any Other Name: A Novel

Description:

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From the co-author of Mad Honey comes an “inspiring” (Elle) novel about two women, centuries apart—one of whom is the real author of Shakespeare’s plays—who are both forced to hide behind another name.

“You’ll fall in love with Emilia Bassano, the unforgettable heroine based on a real woman that Picoult brings vividly to life in her brilliantly researched new novel.”—Kristin Hannah, author of The Women

Young playwright Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. But seeing it performed is unlikely, in a theater world where the playing field isn’t level for women. As Melina wonders if she dares risk failure again, her best friend takes the decision out of her hands and submits the play to a festival under a male pseudonym.

In 1581, young Emilia Bassano is a ward of English aristocrats. Her lessons on languages, history, and writing have endowed her with a sharp wit and a gift for storytelling, but like most women of her day, she is allowed no voice of her own. Forced to become a mistress to the Lord Chamberlain, who oversees all theatre productions in England, Emilia sees firsthand how the words of playwrights can move an audience. She begins to form a plan to secretly bring a play of her own to the stage—by paying an actor named William Shakespeare to front her work.

Told in intertwining timelines,
By Any Other Name, a sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire centers two women who are determined to create something beautiful despite the prejudices they face. Should a writer do whatever it takes to see her story live on . . . no matter the cost? This remarkable novel, rooted in primary historical sources, ensures the name Emilia Bassano will no longer be forgotten.


Editorial Reviews

Review

“A fresh take on an age-old question—what if a woman really wrote Shakespeare's plays? . . . The more the novel lays the groundwork, the more convincing it is that the lauded playwright didn't act alone.”People

“You’ll fall in love with Emilia Bassano, the unforgettable heroine based on a real woman that Jodi Picoult brings vividly to life in her brilliantly researched new novel. Picoult’s books always start passionate conversations, and this one is sure to get people talking. Book clubs will embrace this rich, inspiring story.”
—Kristin Hannah, author of The Women

“A heartfelt, inspiring and deeply thought-provoking look at identity, strength and struggle. Meticulously researched, beautiful and original,
By Any Other Name is a timeless classic from one of our great storytellers.”—Chris Whitaker, author of All the Colors of the Dark

“A thought-provoking tale of two female playwrights and the similar compromises they make 400 years apart.”
—The Washington Post

“Picoult’s fictional take on the real life of [Emilia Bassano]. She quite likely would have known Shakespeare, because they moved in the same circles. Did she write things attributed to the Bard? Who knows. But her own life is interesting enough.”
—Los Angeles Times

“Her best one yet. Jodi Picoult has combined her trademark research with an astonishing and heart-rending story, embedded in truth, and turned it into a gripping novel.”
—Jojo Moyes, author of Someone Else’s Shoes

“A blend of historical fiction and modern-day settings, the novel gives us timelines that intertwine and surprise. . .”
—Harper’s Bazaar

“[An] inspiring work of feminist literature.”
—Elle

“Picoult creates a richly detailed portrait of daily life in Elizabethan England, from sumptuous castles to seedy hovels. . . . It’s Emilia’s story, and Picoult lovingly brings her to life. . . . A vibrant tale of a remarkable woman.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“The experience of reading a Jodi Picoult novel—the surge of being swept away in both story and enlightenment—is powerful.”
Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper

“Extensively researched and richly imagined.”
The Christian Science Monitor

“A moving story of courage and ambition.”
Woman’s World

“The acclaimed Jodi Picoult dives right into the did-Shakespeare-write-his-plays controversy with a novel that spans centuries.”
—Parade

“Stunning. So interesting, clever, educational and moving. One of the best books I’ve read in recent times.”
—Gillian McAllister, author of Wrong Place, Wrong Time

“[A] timely and affecting tale . . . Picoult’s many, many fans will pounce on her latest incisive, pot-stirring tale.”
Booklist, starred review

“An excellent addition to Picoult’s thought-provoking novels of human struggle and conflict . . . Beautifully crafted and compelling.”
—The Historical Novels Review

“Masterful . . . Breathtaking . . . Picoult’s own writing reminds us that to be a truly magnificent author, one also must be a poet, a creator of imagery and metaphor.”
—Bookreporter

About the Author

Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including Mad Honey (co-authored with Jennifer Finney Boylan), Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, A Spark of Light, Small Great Things, Leaving Time, and My Sister’s Keeper, and, with daughter Samantha van Leer, two young adult novels, Between the Lines and Off the Page. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars History and Theatre at its Best!

P.&.R. · July 1, 2025

I am astounded by the amount of research that Jodi PIcoult invests in each novel. It is as profound as the subject matter and the sweeping novel I just finished. Every obscure reference the novel brought up, I would stop and look up and they were all true!I always love how novels find me when I am the most in need of a companion. Telling the true story of Emilia Basano through the journey of an aspiring Playwirght Melina Green was a brilliant device. As a believer in equality, I work hard to make sure women have the same opportunities as men and I rarely believe we get the same opportunities or respect as men. As a theatre founder, I related to Melina’s fear of submitting her play and the fear she experienced. It helped to articulate some of the uncertainty I am currently experiencing.My early reservation about the novel is that I am not a Shakespeare aficionado, even though we have the Shakespeare Tavern down the road and I spent many years going to Georgia Shakespeare. I was pleasantly surprised by how many references I understood and related to how the pain of our real lives gets translated into the ART we create.The epic tale of Emilia’s lifelong deception hooked me. Her words felt stolen by Shakespeare although she monetized her ART which I talk about all the time to our Apprentices. She undervalued her worth and she longed to be with the love of her life.Melina’s story was just as compelling. Living in New York with her best friend Andre (the name of my best high school friend) both trying to make it as playwrights, rooting for her to get her play produced was exciting. Proving the critics wrong! That is what have been spending my entire career doing.Having just returned from London, my greatest regret may be that I didn’t go to Victoria and Albert Museum to see the miniature portraits of Emilia and Southampton “the unknown man” for myself, but I will fondly remember our boat ride on the Thames past the Old Globe Theatre in 2025.If I had one small quibble, it would be that Goodspeed Opera House was producing someone’s play! The Main Opera House only produces musicals and their Norma Terris Theatre may host a casual play reading, they are known for producing MUSICALS ONLY! However, I smiled remembering my wonderful 2 years there as a musical director when I was early on my journey to be a producer half as good as Michael Price and now Donna Lynn Hilton. (Again, it was the novel I needed during this uncertain time.)Thank you for a wonderful novel Jodi. The friends I was traveling with insisted I read MAD HONEY next, so I immediately downloaded it to read in the next few weeks. They also suggested I look into producing the musical you wrote with your daughter called, “Between the Lines.” You continue to inspire me as a powerful and outspoken woman ARTIST!

4.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring.

J. · January 1, 2025

4.5 ★I loved this book for many reasons, including the characters, the plot, and the emotions of the characters. I've been reading Jodi Picoult since I was in college for my associate’s degree, and while there were some that I loved more than others, there hasn't been a single book of hers that I didn't enjoy reading. I've heard a lot about her recent book, By Any Other Name, and the title alone will make anyone curious enough to pick it up and check it out. I'm so glad I finally got the chance to read this book, and now that I've done so, I can see why so many people were talking about it and why it was nominated for favorite historical fiction in the Goodreads Choice Awards. This is unlike any other Picoult book I've read, and it had me up until 1:00 a.m. because I wanted to know what happened to all the characters, particularly Melina and Emilia.I liked how it was done in two timelines and from the perspectives of Melina and Emilia; I thought it brought the story to life more. I liked how the play's writing intertwined Melina and Emilia's experiences and how the two timelines related to each other. I liked reading about Emilia and Melina because, despite their own perceptions, they were both strong and inspirational women. Nevertheless, I found Emilia's story to be more engaging to read; I sensed that more was happening in hers. I was impressed by Emilia's determination; she never gave up and continued to write despite everything that was going on in her life. A part of me wondered if the real 'author' would be uncovered; I didn't think it was fair that she wasn't receiving credit for all her writing. Throughout the novel, I was rooting for her happy ending. I was cheering for Melina to get her play produced because I had a sense there would be problems if a real writer was discovered.I studied and read William Shakespeare's plays in high school. Never did it occur to me that he was not the author. That surprised me, and it motivated me to conduct my own research on the topic. Picoult's novel, By Any Other Name , reflects her deep research. It's one of the reasons I adore her books. However, I believe the book was a little too long, and some portions dragged on and were difficult to get into. Despite that, the book was difficult to put down. This is the novel that will make you think; a story that you will be unable to forget. Following this book, I'm eager to see what Jodi Picoult has in store for us next!

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read!

t.b.l.t. · October 21, 2025

Jodi Picoult out did herself on this one! So much research was done to get this amazing historical fiction story. likable characters like Emily Bassano story will stay with you long after you have finished the book. A part of Shakespeare I didn't know. Amazing story.

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Insightful

S.T. · October 11, 2025

A great read with incredible thought provoking ideas. I love that this novel challenges what we have learned and gives a name and a purpose to the women of Elizabethan times; and more.

3.0 out of 5 stars Emilia's story is AMAZING. Melina is a waste of time.

K.S. · September 24, 2025

Though Jodi Picoult is an incredible writer, half of this book fell flat. The dual character format was an absolute waste as it's clear that Picoult was solely interested in the story of Emilia Bassano (understandably). She wrote about this character, her life, her surrounding is wonderful depth.Trying to draw a parallel between old and modern times through the second character, Melina, was a waste of paper and ink. This character is completely underdeveloped. There's nearly zero depth. She whines and runs away any time life throws her a curve ball. Additionally, for a character that's so hellbent on constantly hammering us with women's independence and being overshadowed by men, she constantly gets rescued by men.Overall, the book is incredible but ONLY if you read Emilia's chapters. Skip Melina's...you'll thank me.

4.0 out of 5 stars history

K.A. · September 9, 2025

Good read, loved the history part. Women were slaves and at the mercy of the men in their lives only widows had any freedom.

5.0 out of 5 stars historical fiction at its best! so intriguing

L.D. · October 3, 2025

Did Shakespeare write his own plays? Or was it a woman? Such an intriguingly unique storyline taking place in Elizabethan England and modern day. Lots to discuss and be curious in here.

相当な忍耐が必要

オ. · July 22, 2025

2024年8月発表のJ. Picoult最新作。1600年を挟んで実在したシェークスピアの女性ゴーストライター候補Emilia、その子孫で自分も劇作家を目指す現代女性Melina、その彼女がEmiliaを主人公として書いた芝居の脚本、更にはEmiliaが書いた詩まで出て来ます。英語が過去と現在で違い、また詩や演劇の脚本も小説とは違う上に、話が混み入ってややこしく、読み進めるのに相当な忍耐が必要です。私はダメで今までほぼ1年掛かりました。果たしてそこまで手を広げてややこしくする必要があったのか甚だ疑問で、リベラルな思想をベースに「大御所」を目指して高尚な作風・作品を志向したのではと邪推したくもなります。ラストに炸裂する渾身のサプライズ一発に賭けた初期の作風が懐かしいです。

My first Jodi Pichoult read

J.M. · November 8, 2024

Having never read this author’s previous books, I am impressed with the diversity of characters and settings. I enjoyed moving between centuries and societal norms while following the two main characters of this book; both strong women. I am still reading this book and expect to love it to the very last page.

There Was Once A Girl

J.W. · August 4, 2025

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult is a marvellous dual timeline novel that I really enjoyed. It has its’ roots in fact and will educate you as you read.There are actual historical figures including Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare. The leading lady in the sixteenth century is Emilia Bassano who we know actually existed. Jodi Picoult’s notes at the end of the book are fascinating. Emilia Bassano is the focus of the novel and has links to present day author Melina who is researching her as she is her ancestor.There are many parallels between the two women as they are both seeking to write, and both are marginalised in favour of men.Jodi Picoult has created a fascinating tale around the subject of invisible women. “There was a girl who became invisible so that her words might not be.” Women, it seemed, were invisible in all sorts of walks of life. As they aged, they were passed by.Writing about Alice Arden who murdered her husband Thomas, Emilia Bassano says: “For a woman to have status, she must be married. Yet a married woman loses everything – her name, her body, her property, her money. It all belongs to her husband. A widow… is given back all that rightfully belongs to her… It is a wonder there aren’t more husbands murdered.” It is very sad to see women “sidelined because of gender.”There is a rumour that William Shakespeare did not write his plays but Emilia Bassano did. There is not a scrap of physical evidence but “when it came to history, absence of evidence was not evidence of absence.”In the sixteenth century we see that young women were given as mistresses to older men. They were property to be passed about.It is awful to read of the domestic violence committed. We see the kindness of other women towards the woman.In both time periods, the women find their great love. For Emilia Bassano it is a love that will never die even though it is a love that must be hidden.There are parallels in both tales. Jodi Picoult has constructed a marvellous tale. It is one that will consume you; make you feel anger on behalf of the women; and applaud their strength of character.I will leave the final words with Emilia Bassano:“I believe we are all God’s children… If we were made in His image, should we not be equal in His regard?”

Original and unexpected page turner

G.B. · January 1, 2025

Original and unexpected page turner

Captivating story

B.G. · February 2, 2025

This book is written to captivate the readers. It is written in the present and past tense so you get the parts of the story and it builds as you read. Great story.

By Any Other Name: A Novel

Product ID: U059349721K
Condition: New

4.4

AED10163

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Type: Hardcover
Availability: In Stock

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Order today to get by 7-14 business days

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By Any Other Name: A Novel

Product ID: U059349721K
Condition: New

4.4

By Any Other Name: A Novel-0
Type: Hardcover

AED10163

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From the co-author of Mad Honey comes an “inspiring” (Elle) novel about two women, centuries apart—one of whom is the real author of Shakespeare’s plays—who are both forced to hide behind another name.

“You’ll fall in love with Emilia Bassano, the unforgettable heroine based on a real woman that Picoult brings vividly to life in her brilliantly researched new novel.”—Kristin Hannah, author of The Women

Young playwright Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. But seeing it performed is unlikely, in a theater world where the playing field isn’t level for women. As Melina wonders if she dares risk failure again, her best friend takes the decision out of her hands and submits the play to a festival under a male pseudonym.

In 1581, young Emilia Bassano is a ward of English aristocrats. Her lessons on languages, history, and writing have endowed her with a sharp wit and a gift for storytelling, but like most women of her day, she is allowed no voice of her own. Forced to become a mistress to the Lord Chamberlain, who oversees all theatre productions in England, Emilia sees firsthand how the words of playwrights can move an audience. She begins to form a plan to secretly bring a play of her own to the stage—by paying an actor named William Shakespeare to front her work.

Told in intertwining timelines,
By Any Other Name, a sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire centers two women who are determined to create something beautiful despite the prejudices they face. Should a writer do whatever it takes to see her story live on . . . no matter the cost? This remarkable novel, rooted in primary historical sources, ensures the name Emilia Bassano will no longer be forgotten.


Editorial Reviews

Review

“A fresh take on an age-old question—what if a woman really wrote Shakespeare's plays? . . . The more the novel lays the groundwork, the more convincing it is that the lauded playwright didn't act alone.”People

“You’ll fall in love with Emilia Bassano, the unforgettable heroine based on a real woman that Jodi Picoult brings vividly to life in her brilliantly researched new novel. Picoult’s books always start passionate conversations, and this one is sure to get people talking. Book clubs will embrace this rich, inspiring story.”
—Kristin Hannah, author of The Women

“A heartfelt, inspiring and deeply thought-provoking look at identity, strength and struggle. Meticulously researched, beautiful and original,
By Any Other Name is a timeless classic from one of our great storytellers.”—Chris Whitaker, author of All the Colors of the Dark

“A thought-provoking tale of two female playwrights and the similar compromises they make 400 years apart.”
—The Washington Post

“Picoult’s fictional take on the real life of [Emilia Bassano]. She quite likely would have known Shakespeare, because they moved in the same circles. Did she write things attributed to the Bard? Who knows. But her own life is interesting enough.”
—Los Angeles Times

“Her best one yet. Jodi Picoult has combined her trademark research with an astonishing and heart-rending story, embedded in truth, and turned it into a gripping novel.”
—Jojo Moyes, author of Someone Else’s Shoes

“A blend of historical fiction and modern-day settings, the novel gives us timelines that intertwine and surprise. . .”
—Harper’s Bazaar

“[An] inspiring work of feminist literature.”
—Elle

“Picoult creates a richly detailed portrait of daily life in Elizabethan England, from sumptuous castles to seedy hovels. . . . It’s Emilia’s story, and Picoult lovingly brings her to life. . . . A vibrant tale of a remarkable woman.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“The experience of reading a Jodi Picoult novel—the surge of being swept away in both story and enlightenment—is powerful.”
Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper

“Extensively researched and richly imagined.”
The Christian Science Monitor

“A moving story of courage and ambition.”
Woman’s World

“The acclaimed Jodi Picoult dives right into the did-Shakespeare-write-his-plays controversy with a novel that spans centuries.”
—Parade

“Stunning. So interesting, clever, educational and moving. One of the best books I’ve read in recent times.”
—Gillian McAllister, author of Wrong Place, Wrong Time

“[A] timely and affecting tale . . . Picoult’s many, many fans will pounce on her latest incisive, pot-stirring tale.”
Booklist, starred review

“An excellent addition to Picoult’s thought-provoking novels of human struggle and conflict . . . Beautifully crafted and compelling.”
—The Historical Novels Review

“Masterful . . . Breathtaking . . . Picoult’s own writing reminds us that to be a truly magnificent author, one also must be a poet, a creator of imagery and metaphor.”
—Bookreporter

About the Author

Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including Mad Honey (co-authored with Jennifer Finney Boylan), Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, A Spark of Light, Small Great Things, Leaving Time, and My Sister’s Keeper, and, with daughter Samantha van Leer, two young adult novels, Between the Lines and Off the Page. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars History and Theatre at its Best!

P.&.R. · July 1, 2025

I am astounded by the amount of research that Jodi PIcoult invests in each novel. It is as profound as the subject matter and the sweeping novel I just finished. Every obscure reference the novel brought up, I would stop and look up and they were all true!I always love how novels find me when I am the most in need of a companion. Telling the true story of Emilia Basano through the journey of an aspiring Playwirght Melina Green was a brilliant device. As a believer in equality, I work hard to make sure women have the same opportunities as men and I rarely believe we get the same opportunities or respect as men. As a theatre founder, I related to Melina’s fear of submitting her play and the fear she experienced. It helped to articulate some of the uncertainty I am currently experiencing.My early reservation about the novel is that I am not a Shakespeare aficionado, even though we have the Shakespeare Tavern down the road and I spent many years going to Georgia Shakespeare. I was pleasantly surprised by how many references I understood and related to how the pain of our real lives gets translated into the ART we create.The epic tale of Emilia’s lifelong deception hooked me. Her words felt stolen by Shakespeare although she monetized her ART which I talk about all the time to our Apprentices. She undervalued her worth and she longed to be with the love of her life.Melina’s story was just as compelling. Living in New York with her best friend Andre (the name of my best high school friend) both trying to make it as playwrights, rooting for her to get her play produced was exciting. Proving the critics wrong! That is what have been spending my entire career doing.Having just returned from London, my greatest regret may be that I didn’t go to Victoria and Albert Museum to see the miniature portraits of Emilia and Southampton “the unknown man” for myself, but I will fondly remember our boat ride on the Thames past the Old Globe Theatre in 2025.If I had one small quibble, it would be that Goodspeed Opera House was producing someone’s play! The Main Opera House only produces musicals and their Norma Terris Theatre may host a casual play reading, they are known for producing MUSICALS ONLY! However, I smiled remembering my wonderful 2 years there as a musical director when I was early on my journey to be a producer half as good as Michael Price and now Donna Lynn Hilton. (Again, it was the novel I needed during this uncertain time.)Thank you for a wonderful novel Jodi. The friends I was traveling with insisted I read MAD HONEY next, so I immediately downloaded it to read in the next few weeks. They also suggested I look into producing the musical you wrote with your daughter called, “Between the Lines.” You continue to inspire me as a powerful and outspoken woman ARTIST!

4.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring.

J. · January 1, 2025

4.5 ★I loved this book for many reasons, including the characters, the plot, and the emotions of the characters. I've been reading Jodi Picoult since I was in college for my associate’s degree, and while there were some that I loved more than others, there hasn't been a single book of hers that I didn't enjoy reading. I've heard a lot about her recent book, By Any Other Name, and the title alone will make anyone curious enough to pick it up and check it out. I'm so glad I finally got the chance to read this book, and now that I've done so, I can see why so many people were talking about it and why it was nominated for favorite historical fiction in the Goodreads Choice Awards. This is unlike any other Picoult book I've read, and it had me up until 1:00 a.m. because I wanted to know what happened to all the characters, particularly Melina and Emilia.I liked how it was done in two timelines and from the perspectives of Melina and Emilia; I thought it brought the story to life more. I liked how the play's writing intertwined Melina and Emilia's experiences and how the two timelines related to each other. I liked reading about Emilia and Melina because, despite their own perceptions, they were both strong and inspirational women. Nevertheless, I found Emilia's story to be more engaging to read; I sensed that more was happening in hers. I was impressed by Emilia's determination; she never gave up and continued to write despite everything that was going on in her life. A part of me wondered if the real 'author' would be uncovered; I didn't think it was fair that she wasn't receiving credit for all her writing. Throughout the novel, I was rooting for her happy ending. I was cheering for Melina to get her play produced because I had a sense there would be problems if a real writer was discovered.I studied and read William Shakespeare's plays in high school. Never did it occur to me that he was not the author. That surprised me, and it motivated me to conduct my own research on the topic. Picoult's novel, By Any Other Name , reflects her deep research. It's one of the reasons I adore her books. However, I believe the book was a little too long, and some portions dragged on and were difficult to get into. Despite that, the book was difficult to put down. This is the novel that will make you think; a story that you will be unable to forget. Following this book, I'm eager to see what Jodi Picoult has in store for us next!

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read!

t.b.l.t. · October 21, 2025

Jodi Picoult out did herself on this one! So much research was done to get this amazing historical fiction story. likable characters like Emily Bassano story will stay with you long after you have finished the book. A part of Shakespeare I didn't know. Amazing story.

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Insightful

S.T. · October 11, 2025

A great read with incredible thought provoking ideas. I love that this novel challenges what we have learned and gives a name and a purpose to the women of Elizabethan times; and more.

3.0 out of 5 stars Emilia's story is AMAZING. Melina is a waste of time.

K.S. · September 24, 2025

Though Jodi Picoult is an incredible writer, half of this book fell flat. The dual character format was an absolute waste as it's clear that Picoult was solely interested in the story of Emilia Bassano (understandably). She wrote about this character, her life, her surrounding is wonderful depth.Trying to draw a parallel between old and modern times through the second character, Melina, was a waste of paper and ink. This character is completely underdeveloped. There's nearly zero depth. She whines and runs away any time life throws her a curve ball. Additionally, for a character that's so hellbent on constantly hammering us with women's independence and being overshadowed by men, she constantly gets rescued by men.Overall, the book is incredible but ONLY if you read Emilia's chapters. Skip Melina's...you'll thank me.

4.0 out of 5 stars history

K.A. · September 9, 2025

Good read, loved the history part. Women were slaves and at the mercy of the men in their lives only widows had any freedom.

5.0 out of 5 stars historical fiction at its best! so intriguing

L.D. · October 3, 2025

Did Shakespeare write his own plays? Or was it a woman? Such an intriguingly unique storyline taking place in Elizabethan England and modern day. Lots to discuss and be curious in here.

相当な忍耐が必要

オ. · July 22, 2025

2024年8月発表のJ. Picoult最新作。1600年を挟んで実在したシェークスピアの女性ゴーストライター候補Emilia、その子孫で自分も劇作家を目指す現代女性Melina、その彼女がEmiliaを主人公として書いた芝居の脚本、更にはEmiliaが書いた詩まで出て来ます。英語が過去と現在で違い、また詩や演劇の脚本も小説とは違う上に、話が混み入ってややこしく、読み進めるのに相当な忍耐が必要です。私はダメで今までほぼ1年掛かりました。果たしてそこまで手を広げてややこしくする必要があったのか甚だ疑問で、リベラルな思想をベースに「大御所」を目指して高尚な作風・作品を志向したのではと邪推したくもなります。ラストに炸裂する渾身のサプライズ一発に賭けた初期の作風が懐かしいです。

My first Jodi Pichoult read

J.M. · November 8, 2024

Having never read this author’s previous books, I am impressed with the diversity of characters and settings. I enjoyed moving between centuries and societal norms while following the two main characters of this book; both strong women. I am still reading this book and expect to love it to the very last page.

There Was Once A Girl

J.W. · August 4, 2025

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult is a marvellous dual timeline novel that I really enjoyed. It has its’ roots in fact and will educate you as you read.There are actual historical figures including Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare. The leading lady in the sixteenth century is Emilia Bassano who we know actually existed. Jodi Picoult’s notes at the end of the book are fascinating. Emilia Bassano is the focus of the novel and has links to present day author Melina who is researching her as she is her ancestor.There are many parallels between the two women as they are both seeking to write, and both are marginalised in favour of men.Jodi Picoult has created a fascinating tale around the subject of invisible women. “There was a girl who became invisible so that her words might not be.” Women, it seemed, were invisible in all sorts of walks of life. As they aged, they were passed by.Writing about Alice Arden who murdered her husband Thomas, Emilia Bassano says: “For a woman to have status, she must be married. Yet a married woman loses everything – her name, her body, her property, her money. It all belongs to her husband. A widow… is given back all that rightfully belongs to her… It is a wonder there aren’t more husbands murdered.” It is very sad to see women “sidelined because of gender.”There is a rumour that William Shakespeare did not write his plays but Emilia Bassano did. There is not a scrap of physical evidence but “when it came to history, absence of evidence was not evidence of absence.”In the sixteenth century we see that young women were given as mistresses to older men. They were property to be passed about.It is awful to read of the domestic violence committed. We see the kindness of other women towards the woman.In both time periods, the women find their great love. For Emilia Bassano it is a love that will never die even though it is a love that must be hidden.There are parallels in both tales. Jodi Picoult has constructed a marvellous tale. It is one that will consume you; make you feel anger on behalf of the women; and applaud their strength of character.I will leave the final words with Emilia Bassano:“I believe we are all God’s children… If we were made in His image, should we not be equal in His regard?”

Original and unexpected page turner

G.B. · January 1, 2025

Original and unexpected page turner

Captivating story

B.G. · February 2, 2025

This book is written to captivate the readers. It is written in the present and past tense so you get the parts of the story and it builds as you read. Great story.

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