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A Spark of Light

Jodi Picoult (Goodreads Author)

3.70 · Rating details · 104,580 ratings · 11,498 reviews

The warm fall day starts like any other at the Center—a women’s reproductive health services clinic—its staff offering care to anyone who passes through its doors. Then, in late morning, a desperate and distraught gunman bursts in and opens fire, taking all inside hostage.

After rushing to the scene, Hugh McElroy, a police hostage negotiator, sets up a perimeter and begins ...more

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Kindle Edition, 381 pages

Published October 2nd 2018 by Ballantine Books

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· 104,580 ratings · 11,498 reviews

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Sep 07, 2018 Melissa rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2018, best-of-the-best, emotional, unputdownable, must-read-again, womens-fiction, great-twist

We are all drowning slowly in the tide of our opinions, oblivious that we are taking on water every time we open our mouths.

Isn’t that the truth? Regardless of topic, circumstance or person—and whether you have the guts or gumption to share it—deep down, we all have an opinion about everything. Each of us find ourselves walking through life, in our own versions of reality, shaped by past experiences, mistakes, upbringing, religion and oftentimes age. There are those who hold steadfast in the ...more

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Oct 09, 2018 Emily May rated it liked it

Shelves: contemporary, 2018

She wondered if the only way any of us can find what we stand for is by first locating what we stand against.

I got a really pleasant surprise a couple of years ago when I picked up Small Great Things on a whim and discovered that Picoult is actually much more vicious and hard-hitting than I'd expected. Her covers look like chick-lit, but it seems she takes very current, often controversial, topics and examines them through the eyes of complex and relatable characters.

However, I think this bo ...more

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Sep 18, 2018 Dorie - Cats&Books :) rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: edelweiss, literature, netgalley-feedback

***NOW AVAILABLE***

I am either hit or miss with this author and for me this was a miss. I knew from the blurb, which is incredibly extensive, that there will be a shooting at a women’s health clinic where abortions were being performed. I did not know however that this book was going to be entirely about abortions. This was not particularly a problem for me but here is why I didn’t really enjoy the book.

First of all the book is told in reverse order so we already know the ending after the first ***NOW AVAILABLE***

I am either hit or miss with this author and for me this was a miss. I knew from the blurb, which is incredibly extensive, that there will be a shooting at a women’s health clinic where abortions were being performed. I did not know however that this book was going to be entirely about abortions. This was not particularly a problem for me but here is why I didn’t really enjoy the book.

First of all the book is told in reverse order so we already know the ending after the first chapter. For me this took away any mystery or intensity that I would have felt had the book been written from beginning to end. I have read other books written in this fashion but this one just didn’t flow right for me. It felt choppy and actually I got bored with it, that’s my honest opinion.

The book then continues introducing characters and why they are at the clinic that day. There were a large number of characters and it took a few chapters to keep them all straight. There is the owner of the clinic, the nurse, the doctor, a woman that has just had an abortion performed and other women that are in the waiting room. I think a smaller cast of characters would have been better, particularly since at the ending I felt as though I didn’t know really know how the day ended for many of the characters. I felt there were too many loose threads.

I kept waiting for the twist at the end that other reviewers had written about. When it was revealed I found it to be relevant of course but not really believable. I can’t say why because that would be a spoiler, but I don’t think it would be possible for a woman to keep this secret for so many years nor why she would feel she had to.

I did care for many of the characters and how hard their decisions were for them. I feel that a woman’s body is her own and I don’t have the right to tell her what to do with it. So I can honestly say that I am pro choice. However, that said, Ms. Picoult chose to portray all of the protesters as religious zealots, uninformed and uncaring. I’m sure that just as there are many reasons for women to be deciding on an abortion there are equally many reasons why people may protest or be against abortions and it is their right to protest, legally and not abusively. I don’t want to judge those people either.

In the author’s notes Ms. Picoult states “I interviewed pro-life advocates. They were not religious zealots; they were men and women who were speaking from a place of deep personal conviction. All of them were appalled by acts of violence committed in the name of unborn children”. However in the novel she did not describe any of the protestors in this manner, I kept wondering why?

Reviewing this book as a work of fiction is difficult for me. I expected more of a story which would keep me interested, flow well and could be informative. I gave it a 3* because I still believe Ms. Picoult is a wonderful writer and there is some good writing here. Based on my honest feelings however I would not recommend this book.

I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss. ...more

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Sep 28, 2018 Kylie D rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary-fiction, arc

I tried to like this book, I really did, but I found it to be preachy and boring as batshit. I kept finding excuses to put it down and not get back to it, which is unlike me. The reverse chronology of the chapters I found to be disjointed and annoying, and because of this I couldn't connect with any of the characters. And a graphic abortion scene? I mean really? Does anybody need to read that? I know this is Jodi Picoult and it will probably be a mega seller, but it just didn't do it for me.

My t ...more

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Jan 19, 2019 Deanna rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arcs, 2018, my-favorites, highly-recommended

My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...

As soon as I see that a new Jodi Picoult book is going to be released, I can't wait to read it. But as much as I wanted to drag out this novel and make it last, I couldn’t stop reading. I had to find out how it all began…and how it all came together in the end. This novel is written in a way I wasn’t sure I would like. But I actually really enjoyed how the story was told. The book begins at five pm and moves backward in tim ...more

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Oct 03, 2018 Elyse Walters rated it it was ok

Audiobook...
Narrated by Bahni Turpin, and Jodi Picoult

Favorite line: from Jodi Picoult...( reading this part herself), in the author’s notes:
“Laws are black and white;
lives of women are shades of gray”.

I also agree with this statement:
“I don’t think we, as a society will ever see eye to eye on each other’s point of views....
but it’s important to have conversations and talk with each other”.

My reasons for only 2 stars:
.... I didn’t think much of the storytelling of
this topic. It felt cold and ...more

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Aug 28, 2018 Paromjit rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley, contemporary-fiction, women-s-fiction

Author Jodi Picoult is no stranger to controversy, and it seems somehow fitting that she should tackle the contentious issue of a woman's right to abortion in this, her latest offering. Set in a women's reproductive health services clinic, now becoming a rare commodity, the story kick starts with a bang with a desperate gunman shooting at those within the clinic and holding them hostage. The narrative then proceeds to go back in time to the start of the day for the wide cast of characters presen ...more

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Jul 08, 2018 Debra rated it liked it

Shelves: netgalley

"Today, Wren McElroy thought, was not a good day to die."

This book begins with a hostage situation at the local Center. The Center is a place for women (and teens) to go and get birth control, have gynecological examinations, and obtain abortions. It is known as a woman's reproductive health services clinic. Naturally there are those who do not want such a clinic in their community and there are those who are thankful that it is there.

One day a man bursts into the clinic and begins firing. Anoth "Today, Wren McElroy thought, was not a good day to die."

This book begins with a hostage situation at the local Center. The Center is a place for women (and teens) to go and get birth control, have gynecological examinations, and obtain abortions. It is known as a woman's reproductive health services clinic. Naturally there are those who do not want such a clinic in their community and there are those who are thankful that it is there.

One day a man bursts into the clinic and begins firing. Another man, Hugh McElroy, a police hostage negotiator is called to the scene. He has been getting a flurry of texts from his daughter and learns that she is inside the health clinic and is one of the hostages. He also learns that his sister is with Wren and has been injured.

Wren and her aunt are not the only hostages. There are others and through the story we get to learn about each character, his/her past and why they are in the clinic that day. They either work at the Center or they are there for services. We are given each of their perspectives. This book is told in reverse. It starts with the hostage situation and goes back in time to the beginning of the day. For some this reverse story telling may work, for others, it may not. There is also a story-line being told in this book apart from the hostage, in a different location, but is connected to the hostage situation. I wish I would have seen even more of this character in the book. I really felt for her plight and wanted to learn what ultimately happened to her. I have fingers crossed that possibly Picoult will write about a book about her and her plight.

I requested this book without even knowing what the subject matter of this book would be, I didn't care as I enjoy Jodi Picoult. She never shy's away from controversial or uncomfortable subject matter and always does her homework. Some books I enjoy more than others. This was certainly the case with this book. What I appreciated the most was that this book was not preachy. The reader is never pushed to be pro-life or pro-choice. No matter where readers stand on abortion, I believe both sides will appreciate this book. As I said, it is not preachy and does not ask the reader to pick a side. In the Author's note she gives statistics and cites laws. I also enjoyed how she gave back story on the characters and his/her reason's for being at the clinic that day.

I am teetering back and forth between a 3 and a 3.5 star rating for this book. I will admit, I wasn't a fan of how this book was told in reverse. I might have enjoyed it more if it was told from beginning to end instead of end to beginning. What worked for me in this book were the various voices as I stated above. Plus, there is a little secret revealed at the end which leads to an aha moment. I appreciate that she took on such important and timely subject matter. Regardless of where one stands on the issues, I think she did a very good job of telling the story.

Thank you to Random House Publishing - Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Read all my reviews at www.openbookpost.com ...more

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Oct 05, 2018 Angela M rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley-reviews

3.5 rounded up.
Jodie Picoult is a prolific writer, and if you’ve read any of her books, you know she confronts head on some tough, controversial and always relevant issues. This one couldn’t be more timely with this predominantly conservative Supreme Court we will more than likely have, who could possibly reverse Roe v Wade. We see mass shootings and hostage situations too frequently on the news. This book takes us inside a hostage situation, where people are shot inside an women’s clinic that p
3.5 rounded up.
Jodie Picoult is a prolific writer, and if you’ve read any of her books, you know she confronts head on some tough, controversial and always relevant issues. This one couldn’t be more timely with this predominantly conservative Supreme Court we will more than likely have, who could possibly reverse Roe v Wade. We see mass shootings and hostage situations too frequently on the news. This book takes us inside a hostage situation, where people are shot inside an women’s clinic that provides abortion services. Picoult has done a terrific job of reflecting both pro-choice and pro-life points of view. Most people who read this book will probably have their own opinion on the issue, and what happens here most likely isn’t going to change that. At the very least by giving us characters with different perspectives, those who want their babies, those who don’t, or those who do, but just can’t because of circumstances, she gives us a chance to see things differently from where we may stand.

I’m not going to focus at all on the plot, but rather on the number of things that I liked about this story. I liked how the hostages, some of whom didn’t know each other connected. I liked how Picoult moves rapidly from character to character and gives us each of their stories. In this cast of characters, my favorite was Louie, the abortion doctor, who was pro-life but wanted those who wanted an abortion to have it safely. He remembers his mother. It made me think about how easily we judge people without knowing what they have experienced. It made me think about the victims of these types of crimes and of how little we know them except for a few things they tell us in the news.

What didn’t quite work for me was the structure of the book which reads backwards in time and I’m not really sure why. It didn’t add anything to the story for me. It felt repetitive at times. There were a couple of relationship twists which I guessed, but ultimately did made sense for the story and were realistic. Picoult could have been preachy, but she wasn’t. She has written a thought provoking story, one that encourages dialogue. In the end what I liked about the book outweighed what I didn’t like so I will round up it to 4 stars.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through NetGalley. ...more

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Mar 03, 2019 Melissa ♥ Dog/Wolf Lover ♥ Martin rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: library-book

I love Jodi Picoult so much!!

Her books always seep into my soul ....

The question is not whether we will be extremists, but what kind of extremists we will be. Will we be extremists for hate or for love?
-Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King JR
...more

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Oct 14, 2018 Susanne Strong rated it it was amazing

Shelves: netgalley

4.5 Brilliant and Harrowing Stars* (rounded up)

With “A Spark of Light” Jodi Picoult does it again! This time however, the path she takes to get to the finish line is a little different.

As we all know, Jodi Picoult is no stranger to controversy. Nor does she shy away from topics that others would never conceive of. One of her many talents lies in her ability to remain neutral while weaving stories about the most contentious of subjects. This is one of those times.

In “A Spark of Light,” several w ...more

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Oct 11, 2018 Justin Tate rated it liked it · review of another edition

Didn’t care for this book, but there’s an asterisk on that. First, I love Jodi Picoult. Her ability to see something from every point of view is the kind of extreme empathy we need more of in this county. I also love the vision of this novel. She examines abortion from the top of the iceberg and slowly works down to the broader scope of the issue, both from the perspective of pro-choice and pro-life characters.

It was a risky move to write this in reverse chronological order, where every chapter Didn’t care for this book, but there’s an asterisk on that. First, I love Jodi Picoult. Her ability to see something from every point of view is the kind of extreme empathy we need more of in this county. I also love the vision of this novel. She examines abortion from the top of the iceberg and slowly works down to the broader scope of the issue, both from the perspective of pro-choice and pro-life characters.

It was a risky move to write this in reverse chronological order, where every chapter goes back an hour. It paid off thematically and fit her vision well, but also created an awkward reading experience. Worse than the reverse order, however, are the multitudes of mini sections that jump point of view. I didn’t count, but there must’ve been 20 major characters, few with any kind of spotlight role. The struggle to keep track of everyone was very real.

Now, I listened to the audio version which may have made it harder on me, but looking at the psychical copy I don’t think paper would’ve been any better. She uses a double space to signify character change, and each character only gets 1-2 pages before it shifts again. Had each POV shift been given a chapter number, there would likely be 200 chapters in the book. Yikes!

For the vast majority of the time I listened to the book, I had no idea what was going on. I knew there was a shooter and I could remember vague sketches of character back-and-front story, but ultimately i was only able to finish by enjoying the moments of internal dialogue or occasional dramatic moment when Jodi would bring the news to life.

OVERALL: while I didn’t enjoy reading A Spark of Light, I have to give kudos for its thematic success. It’s one of the few novels to really discuss abortion in a meaningful way. Actually, it’s the only one I can think of. I wish there had been fewer characters, but I also can’t see any other way to examine an issue this far-reaching. To best enjoy it, consider making a character cheat sheet as you go along so it won’t be so confusing. ...more

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Oct 01, 2018 Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2018-reads, arcs, kindle-version, super-excited-about

4 fiery stars to A Spark of Light! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

As a fan of her writing, I have noticed Jodi Picoult’s topics have gotten more fiery as the years have passed, and they continue to be thought-provoking.

The Center is a women’s clinic serving all their health needs. Everything changes when a man with a gun enters the building, begins shooting, and takes everyone hostage. My first questions are who is this man and why is he so distraught? I knew there would be more to his story.

Hugh McElroy is a ho 4 fiery stars to A Spark of Light! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

As a fan of her writing, I have noticed Jodi Picoult’s topics have gotten more fiery as the years have passed, and they continue to be thought-provoking.

The Center is a women’s clinic serving all their health needs. Everything changes when a man with a gun enters the building, begins shooting, and takes everyone hostage. My first questions are who is this man and why is he so distraught? I knew there would be more to his story.

Hugh McElroy is a hostage negotiator for the police. He arrives on scene and completes all the typical first steps in a grim and terrifying situation like this only to have his phone buzz with the news that his teen daughter, Wren, is one of the hostages.

Wren shares her story inside the building, while also shedding light on the other hostages, including clinic workers among others. There is Catholic Dr. Louie who believes he exercises his faith in his daily work. A nurse hero is also there. Also inside is a pro-life protestor who disguised herself as a patient that day only to find herself on the other side of the rage she herself was feeling. The characters in this novel are what make it a cut above. I felt empathy for each complex character; it was easy to with the way they were written.

The structure of the book is interesting. It goes backward through the day of the stand-off. I enjoyed it because it was different, but I had to remind myself a few times the story moves backward retracing how everyone arrives at the clinic that day.

As with all her books, it seems as if Spark of Light is meant to ignite a dialogue about an important topic to many. The storytelling is second to none, all the varied emotions are checked off, the research is firmly present, and the exploration of both sides is offered. Fans of Picoult should find much to love here.

I’m ecstatically grateful I had the opportunity to read an early of this book. Thank you to Random House/Ballantine. All opinions are my own.

My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com ...more

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Jun 09, 2018 Crumb marked it as to-read

I am so happy I can't even speak. I received this ARC in the mail! ...more

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Sep 23, 2018 Darla rated it did not like it

This was a difficult book for me to read and this will not be a popular review. From the description I expected an evenhanded presentation of both sides of the issue on abortion. Picoult notes having spent time with those on the pro-life side before writing the book, but clearly did not connect with them. Pro-life activists are labeled as "antis" and white men who want to control women's bodies. Out of the ten main characters in the book, only two are shown in the pro-life camp -- one is the sho ...more

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Jun 12, 2018 Amy rated it it was amazing

Shelves: netgalley

Oh my god you guys, I actually read this book months ago and I’m still thinking about it today. As soon as I received a copy I dropped everything and started it and it totally blew me away. It has her trademark hard hitting subject matter and deeply moving storyline and she rips her storylines straight from the headlines like no ones else does. If you read one book I recommended this year I urge you to make it this one, I feel like we can all learn something profound from this book.

The structure ...more

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Aug 21, 2018 Tammy rated it liked it · review of another edition

It’s been years since I’ve read Picoult. It’s been so long that I can’t recall which of her books I did read. This one begins at an abortion/women’s health clinic during a hostage crisis. Told in reverse chronological order, the story examines the abortion issue from both sides by presenting characters who wind up in a hostage situation for a multitude of reasons. Some are there to terminate or to prevent a pregnancy. Some are there to perform the procedure or to assist in other ways. Others are ...more

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Oct 11, 2018 Meredith B. (readingwithmere) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

It stood to reason that both life and death began with a spark of light

5 Powerful & Thought Provoking Stars

It's a fall day and women are driving from all over the state to The Center for Women in Jackson Mississippi because it is one of the few places that women in the state can go to receive care. This includes birth control, cancer checks, ultrasounds and yes, abortions. Mississippi has the strictest law (15 weeks) that you can have one. Outside the doors, there are protesters everyday trying to change minds.

Wren, a high school student goes there with her Aunt Bex to receive some care. All of a sudden a man comes barreling in and shoots the owner. He then goes on to try and shoot the doctor and any nurses that are there. This turns into a hostage situation and among them are cancer patients, women who recently had abortions, women there for birth control and women there for exams. The next few hours the hostages try to work together to save each other but also learn about each other and share experiences. Justine, a pro-life advocate shares her stories and secrets and Izzy, a nurse who ends up taking care of some of the shot patients also shares stories while trying to save lives. The real question is, is there a right side to this argument?

Regardless of your stance on abortion, I think that this book does a really great job of showing both sides of the table. That's one thing I love about Jodi's books. She always completes such throughout research when writing her books and tries to show both sides of the issue at hand. This book is not overly emotional but it definitely stirs up some internal emotions based on what side of the issue you fall on.

One theme I loved about this book was the Father and Daughter relationship. There are two main Father/Daughter relationships throughout the book and they were similar in many ways but at the end they became complete opposites. This book made me think about my Dad and what he would have done if he was put in either of their situations. Regardless of what each Dad chose, I felt they were acting on their own instincts to do what they thought was "right" for their daughters.

The book is written from almost finish to start. I say almost because there's a short epilogue at the end to finish the story. Some people have criticized this writing and said it "gave away" the story but I understand why Picoult wrote it that way. I actually thought the suspense and emotions built as we continued to go back. A lot of the time I was asking myself "What made them do this or that?" "Why did they choose this path?" "What happened in their past?" As the story continues to go back all of these things reveal themselves and it all comes together. I personally liked it.

Also....the ending. I said WHAT twice. Even though this is definitely not a thriller or suspense novel, Picoult always puts a few twists at the end. Gah, I just love her writing. The topics she tackles and the balance of storytelling is unbeatable. Can you tell she's my favorite author? :)

All you Picoult fans, pick it up (if you haven't already). Those who are on the fence - read it. It's a winner! ...more

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Feb 18, 2019 Lindsay - Traveling Sisters Book Reviews rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, traveling-sister-read, 2019-favourites

5+ stars!

Eye-opening. Informative. Emotional. Raw. Intense. Heart-wrenching.

Jodi Picoult has been one of my favourite authors for years. I’ve read all of her books. It’s hard not to place high expectations on a consistently amazing author - there is always that worry about whether their latest novel will be as good as the others. This book certainly met and exceeded my hopes and expectations for the journey it would take me on. It has easily earned a spot on my Favourites list.

This story revolv 5+ stars!

Eye-opening. Informative. Emotional. Raw. Intense. Heart-wrenching.

Jodi Picoult has been one of my favourite authors for years. I’ve read all of her books. It’s hard not to place high expectations on a consistently amazing author - there is always that worry about whether their latest novel will be as good as the others. This book certainly met and exceeded my hopes and expectations for the journey it would take me on. It has easily earned a spot on my Favourites list.

This story revolves around a gunman who enters a Women’s Clinic in a rage against abortions being performed there. He takes multiple lives and wounds several others while holding the remaining people hostage. Picoult introduces a variety of characters, all of which played a vital role in presenting an informative and multi-layered outlook of the many viewpoints and opinions surrounding the controversial topic of abortion. The novel takes place in one day with each chapter moving backward one hour. Yes – we start near the very end of the story, yet have so much background and detail to explore before being able to piece together the chaos of what happened.

As expected, Picoult’s writing is stunning. I felt completely wrapped up within the confines of what these characters were enduring. The storyline is intense and has an extreme sense of urgency that had me glued to the pages. As with all of Picoult’s novels, the details were rich and informative. The characters and their situations’ were engrossing and real. I truly felt for them. While the flow of the book took a little getting used to with the reverse timeline, I ended up loving the way it unfolded. Very unique and powerful.

Abortion is a highly debated topic. I thought Picoult did a fantastic job presenting all sides to the subject, engaging the reader with all characters and perspectives. An extremely eye-opening experience. This book will make you think. It will make you explore all angles. It will make you consider what you would do in these characters’ positions. It will stay with you long after you close the cover. I highly recommend!

This was a Traveling Sister read with Brenda and Norma. We loved it! ...more

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Sep 05, 2018 Li'l Owl rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: detective-police-procedural-sheriff, stand-alone, mystery-crime-suspense-thriller, netgalley, usa-author-setting

Where to start with this review?
To start, A Spark of Light wasn't what I was expecting.

I've read several other books by Jodi Picoult and they've all been full of tension and suspence that kept me glued to the pages.
The beginning of this one was just that, an explosive, heart-stopping moment that immediately grabbed my attention. Unfortunately, for me, the main body of the book slowed considerably and was more about abortion than the hostage situation. Hugh McElroy, the hostage negotiator, dis ...more

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Sep 26, 2018 Carrie rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley

A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult is a fictional title that tackles the very tough subject of abortion so it may not be for everyone. The story is one that doesn’t take sides but instead tries to shed light all around in a suspenseful setting. The format is also a bit different and unusual in the fact that the author chose to start at the end and go backward from there counting back the hours and one horrific day in the small community clinic.

Now, for me I very much appreciate what the author tri A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult is a fictional title that tackles the very tough subject of abortion so it may not be for everyone. The story is one that doesn’t take sides but instead tries to shed light all around in a suspenseful setting. The format is also a bit different and unusual in the fact that the author chose to start at the end and go backward from there counting back the hours and one horrific day in the small community clinic.

Now, for me I very much appreciate what the author tried to do with bringing this subject matter to light in a truly thought provoking read. However I’m not sure I was a fan of the format of this story when all was said in done. To be honest the first chapter or the first “hour” of the story beginning in the late afternoon was like being dropped into a warzone and a bit hard to follow when you know nothing about the characters or story and are just trying to grasp the plot.

On the other hand after the first couple of hours of the day counted backward and I began to get to know the situation and characters the author’s wonderful writing really shined through. The entire middle of the book is where the meat of the story lies that will make one think and care about what is going on and the characters themselves shine through. At this point i shows why I like to give each book a chance and not give up early because at that point my rating obviously went up.

When all was said and done with the book however I began to question again how I felt about where the story had gone, the format, the subject overall etc. I have to admit the end was a bit of a let down and felt it sort of fizzled after the fiery beginning and I wasn’t quite sure I found everything believable at that point. So weighing all of my feelings throughout this books I decided to go with a 3.5 rating on this one with the ups and downs but a solid story altogether.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/ ...more

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Sep 26, 2018 Melissa (Mel’s Bookshelf) rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: contempory-fiction, publisher-allen-and-unwin, best-of-2018

Jodi Picoult is one of those reliable authors that manage to keep you turning the pages with every one of their books that you read. I was really excited to read her new one A Spark of Light because I know she always delivers the goods! A book that grabs at both sides of the story, sucks you in and brings in all the feels! This time it is about abortion.

Hugh is a police negotiator called in to talk to a gunman after he opens fire at an abortion clinic. Things get very complicated for Hugh when h ...more

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Oct 03, 2018 Hamad rated it liked it

Shelves: 2018-reads, buddy-reads, e-books

This review and other non-spoilery reviews can be found @The Book Prescription

BR this with Dr.Tala

Actual Rating: 3.5 stars

“If we are meant to only have children who never encounter difficulty in life, then no one should be born”

🌟 This is my first book by Jodi Picoult who I have heard lot of good things about. I always avoided her books for no good reason, I just thought that they may be hyped and I wanted to give her a chance. Once I saw she was releasing this book and I read the synopsis I t ...more

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Aug 20, 2018 Chris rated it it was amazing

Once again, Jodi Picoult has given us a novel that is thought-provoking and poignant and powerful -- with a litany of compelling, deeply affecting characters. What makes this novel especially interesting is the narrative structure: Think "Time's Arrow" by Martin Amis. The story moves backwards, and then flashes forward to a stunning epilogue. And what a story it is: a hostage situation at the last clinic in Mississippi that performs abortions. So timely -- and so moving. ...more

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Oct 03, 2018 NZLisaM rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: crime, contemporary, drama

🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠 5 Sparks of Light!

No one tackles tough, controversial, timely issues, as expertly as Jodi Picoult.

I have been anticipating this release for months – waiting, waiting, waiting – and I’m thrilled to report that it was every bit as wondrous and amazing as I’ve come to expect from this incredibly talented author. Her books always see me debating my own beliefs and opinions, and this one was no exception. There were questions raised throughout that I’d never ever considered. A Spark of Light w 🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠 5 Sparks of Light!

No one tackles tough, controversial, timely issues, as expertly as Jodi Picoult.

I have been anticipating this release for months – waiting, waiting, waiting – and I’m thrilled to report that it was every bit as wondrous and amazing as I’ve come to expect from this incredibly talented author. Her books always see me debating my own beliefs and opinions, and this one was no exception. There were questions raised throughout that I’d never ever considered. A Spark of Light was equal parts informative, emotional, and entertaining. I read it over a day and a half, neglecting other parts of my life in the process, in my rush to finish. Picoult presented all sides equally and fairly, without bias, leaving it up to the reader to make up their own minds. There were a couple of pages I had to skim read because I was too uncomfortable, but I think most readers will find themselves an emotional wreck at one point or another while reading, maybe not at the same point as me, but at some stage.

I was torn over the reverse narrative that saw the novel opening at the close of the hostage situation, including the aftermath, and then working it’s way backwards in one hour increments. I hugely admire Jodi Picoult for doing something so bold and inventive, as a lot of work must’ve gone into structuring it that way. It was cleverly done how a character would reveal something about themselves, and then think about it at an earlier point in time for them, but further through the book for us. Meaning it wasn’t just a case of the author writing the end first and the beginning last, there was so much more to it than that and I was in awe while reading. The downside was that at the start of the book you had these characters who had survived this horrific experience, but you hadn’t yet experienced it with them, nor had time to form an emotional attachment. I recommend reading the beginning chapter again after finishing the novel, to gain the full emotional impact. My only other tiny complaint was that the last chapter felt a tad rushed and tacked on, and I would’ve liked a little more closure for a couple of characters, but I would estimate I was still 99% happy with the ending, and it definitely deserves all the stars, no question.

Knowing the outcome for most of the characters, who lived, who died, who survived the hostage situation, etc, one chapter in, could’ve potentially been anti-climatic, but there were so many other things revealed about the characters along the way that were surprising and unexpected that it didn’t matter. All the characters had distinctive personalities, with interesting backstory’s, and a variety of compelling reasons for being at the clinic that day. I loved how two characters love of astronomy was often used to convey the dilemmas and obstacles they were facing, as well as various emotions they were experiencing, and also the explanation for the book title.

Not to be missed! Drop what you are doing, and start reading. ...more

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Jul 06, 2018 Sue rated it it was amazing

Shelves: physical-books, net-galley

I should have paid attention more fully, I didn’t realise on Net Galley the publishers were only offering an exclusive first chapter, all this has done is frustrate me until I can get my hands on the entire book.

This starts with a hostage situation.

It’s told in only the professional way a talented author can tell for her readers to actually feel scared in amongst all the mayhem.

I can’t wait to read more. Thank you Hodder & Stoughton but I need more!

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Jan 17, 2019 Elena rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: 2019

d r y

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Aug 30, 2019 Dean rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This book was very important and amazing for me!!!
I've learn a lot, it has shed much light and open windows with different views of things!!!

Jodi Picoult dealt in his novel with a very difficult topic..
And she does it so masterfully..
Giving it credibility and reinforcing the story with a truly thorough research!!!

"A Spark of Life" is the title of her novel..
The meaning behind is as follow:
Scientists have discovered that certain eggs glowed a little brighter than others at the moment of conceptio ...more

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Oct 15, 2018 Lisa rated it really liked it

Shelves: kindle, 2018, netgalley2018, netgalley, 4-star-reviews

Jodi Picoult shines a light on a controversial issue hoping to spark conversation and understanding.

SUMMARY
The day starts like any other at the Center in Jackson, Mississippi. The women’s reproductive health service clinic offers care to anyone who passes through its door. Later in the morning, a desperate and distraught gunman, George Goddard bursts in, opens fire, and takes everyone inside hostage. His daughter had recently had an abortion. After rushing to the scene Hugh McEIroy, a police hos ...more

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Oct 31, 2018 Jennifer rated it liked it

Shelves: womens-fiction-chicklit, rdn, listened-to-audiobook, read-2018, stand-alone-novel

“Joy wondered how you get someone you think is blind to see what you see. It certainly can't happen when you're standing on opposite sides of a wall.”
A very true statement. As such, Jodi Picoult brings opposing perspectives on abortion inside the very walls they fight, all inside one abortion clinic where they not only share differing opinions but now share the experience of being victims in a violent hostage situation. They are able to put their differences aside and work together
“Joy wondered how you get someone you think is blind to see what you see. It certainly can't happen when you're standing on opposite sides of a wall.”
A very true statement. As such, Jodi Picoult brings opposing perspectives on abortion inside the very walls they fight, all inside one abortion clinic where they not only share differing opinions but now share the experience of being victims in a violent hostage situation. They are able to put their differences aside and work together towards one goal. Survival. Ironic? I think not. This is Jodi Picoult after all.

There are more layers to this novel than a hostage scenario, and even more layers than the subject of abortion. Picoult beautifully showcases fatherhood in all its vulnerability, love, and desperation, and this was hands down my favorite element of this book. However, the controversial theme of abortion does run strong, showing how each of the very many characters came to their personal opinion/belief on the subject while shining light on laws, religion, health, race, women's rights, family culture, etc. Picoult doesn't preach. She very much shows both sides of the coin and lets the reader recognize and process how experiences shape our belief systems, and how “right versus wrong” is sinking both our ships. In her author's note at the end, she writes:
“We may not see eye to eye, but we can respect each others opinions and find the truth in them. Perhaps in those honest conversations, instead of demonizing each other, we might see each other as imperfect humans, doing our best.”
Ultimately, I think that is the primary theme of this novel, and it does come across.

Although A Spark of Light offers an admirable message, I did not find it enjoyable to read. It is written chronologically in reverse and, in my opinion, it did not work. There are so very many characters that were hard enough to keep track of and when you add in a time line that requires an equal amount of mental energy, it becomes very taxing on the reader. If you're a follower of Picoult, you know you're going to read it anyway...so read it and take it in with an open spirit. Picoult is not asking you to change your mind for or against. She's asking you to change your heart from hate to love, to change your views from strict belief to understanding, and to change your actions from stone-thrower to healer in whatever context that may be. It's a beautiful message sadly set in a distracting format. It's worth the read though. Check it out.

My favorite quote:
“Parenting was like awakening to find a soap bubble in the cup of your palm, and being told you had to carry it while you parachuted from a dizzying height, climbed a mountain range, battled on the front lines. All you wanted to do was tuck it away, safe from natural disasters and violence and prejudice and sarcasm, but that was not an option. You lived in daily fear of watching it burst, of breaking it yourself. Somehow you knew that if it disappeared, you would, too.” ...more

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Play Book Tag: A Spark of Light, by Jodi Picoult; 4 Stars	2	7	Feb 21, 2021 04:28PM
Play Book Tag: A Spark of Light by Jodi Piccoult - four stars	2	17	Feb 01, 2021 06:03PM
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About Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult

57,795 followers

Jodi Picoult is the author of twenty-six novels, including the #1 New York Times bestsellers Small Great Things, A Spark of Light, Leaving Time, The Storyteller, Lone Wolf, Between the Lines, Sing You Home, House Rules, Handle with Care, Change of Heart, Nineteen Minutes, and My Sister’s Keeper. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband and three children.

Her new novel, THE BOOK OF TWO WAYS, is ...more