The Plain Truth
by Jodi Picoult
by Jodi Picoult
Pages: 405
My rating: *****
The discovery of a dead infant in an Amish barn shakes Lancaster County to its core. But the police investigation leads to a more shocking disclosure: circumstantial evidence suggests that eighteen-year-old Katie Fisher, an unmarried Amish woman believed to be the newborn’s mother, took the child’s life. When Ellie Hathaway, a disillusioned big-city attorney, comes to Paradise, Pennsylvania, to defend Katie, two cultures collide—and for the first time in her high-profile career, Ellie faces a system of justice very different from her own. Delving deep inside the world of those who live “plain,” Ellie must find a way to reach Katie on her terms. And as she unravels a tangled murder case, Ellie also looks deep within—to confront her own fears and desires when a man from her past reenters her life.
To me, a good work of fiction is one that informs, entertains, and makes you learn something about yourself along the way. This book did all of these things for me. I was invested in this book, and felt for the characters, both anger and sadness.
Plain Truth is set in Amish country in Pennsylvania. Like most readers, I have limited experience with the Amish. This book fascinated me with the tidbits it gave me about day to day life. I am intrigued, and it left me desiring to know more about the lifestyle. Plus, I love Pennsylvania, so that helps!
This is the 2nd book I’ve read by Jodi Picoult. Her books are so many things. They are mysteries, love stories, informational texts, and just good reads. I wouldn’t categorize Plain Truth as a super-quick read, but it is doable in a day. This book took about 10 hours to read (not constantly). If you have a free weekend, it wouldn’t be anything to finish it. I highly recommend this if you like a good read.
I look forward to reading more from Jodi Picoult. Now…which book to choose?