Description
Description
Two women, centuries apart--one of whom is the real author of Shakespeare's plays--are both forced to hide behind another name to make their voices heard. In 1581, Emilia Bassano--like most young women of her day--is allowed no voice of her own. But as the Lord Chamberlain's mistress, she has access to all theater in England, and finds a way to bring her work to the stage secretly. And yet, creating some of the world's greatest dramatic masterpieces comes at great cost: by paying a man for the use of his name, she will write her own out of history. In the present, playwright Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. Although the challenges are different four hundred years later, the playing field is still not level for women in theater. Would Melina--like Emilia--be willing to forfeit her credit as author, just for a chance to see her work performed? Told in intertwining narratives, this sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire asks what price each woman is willing to pay to see their work live on--even if it means they will be forgotten.
About the Author
About the Author
Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of thirty novels, including Mad Honey, 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.
Critical Reviews
Critical Reviews
"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 "Picoult, known for exploring social issues in her best-selling fiction, returns with a thought-provoking tale of two female playwrights and the similar compromises they make 400 years apart. . . . In the end, both women must decide what price they will pay to satisfy their desires and ambitions."--The Washington Post "The acclaimed Jodi Picoult dives right into the did-Shakespeare-write-his-plays controversy with a novel that spans centuries."--Parade "A blend of historical fiction and modern-day settings, the novel gives us timelines that intertwine and surprise. . . . This one is definitely for fans of Shakespeare's work; Picoult has done her research."--Harper's Bazaar "[An] inspiring work of feminist literature."--Elle "Stunning. So interesting, clever, educational and moving. One of the best books I've read in recent times."--Gillian McAllister "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 "In the present, Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of Emilia, her Elizabethan ancestor. . . . [Picoult] creates a well-observed tapestry that connects these two women across time, through art and circumstance."--The A.V. Club "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. Jodi 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 "Perennial bestseller Picoult . . . takes on another hot-button topic sure to ignite controversy and conversation: the question of Shakespearean authorship. . . . [A] timely and affecting tale . . . Picoult's many, many fans will pounce on her latest incisive, pot-stirring tale, while the Shakespearean theme will attract even more readers."--Booklist, starred review "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
Publishing Information
Publishing Information
Publisher:
Ballantine Books
Pub date:
2024-08-20
Length:
544 pages
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