Review | Hollow Bones by Jodi Picoult

Slow to Start, Hard to Put Down

I nearly lost patience with Hollow Bones. Jodi Picoult takes an awfully long time to get this story moving, and I found the opening chapters quite heavy going.

At times, I wondered if we’d ever get to the point. But I’m glad I persevered, because once Picoult gets into her stride, she’s absolutely brilliant.

There’s a lot of background to work through, and while I appreciate that Picoult gives her characters plenty of depth, I thought she took too long to get there this time.

I’d recommend reading My Sister’s Keeper first. A character from that novel returns, and I think knowing the earlier story makes Hollow Bones even more enjoyable. You can read it on its own, but personally, I’m glad I knew the background.

But once the story gets moving, wow! This is Jodi Picoult at her best.

She has that wonderful ability to make you think you know exactly where a story is going, only to have you questioning everything a few chapters later. I love that about her writing. Just when you’ve made up your mind about a character, she gives you a completely different perspective.

By the second half, I was thoroughly hooked. For me, this was a masterclass in storytelling and a reminder of just how good Picoult can be when she hits her stride.

I’m giving Hollow Bones four out of five, and it’s only missing that fifth star because of the long-winded start. I really enjoyed the book, but I do think it could have got to the heart of the story a little sooner.

So, my advice is to read My Sister’s Keeper first, and if you find yourself struggling through Hollow Bones’ early chapters, stick with it. I’m very glad I did.