2.65k reviews for:

The Book of Two Ways

Jodi Picoult

3.7 AVERAGE


I've been curious about Jodi Picoult for a while now and decided to try this book after a friend mentioned that she had just picked it up herself. I'm so glad I did. The formatting and concept of alternate timelines make it almost impossible to put down and you can't help but love the characters (sometimes to a fault). Adventure, heartbreak, and sincere caring love can be found throughout it's entirety. I highly recommend this book.
adventurous emotional reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Not my favorite Jodi Piccoult but a solid book nonetheless. Big theme is death, which is intense at times to think about. 

Purchased hardback - this is no small deal for me. THAT is how much I love this author.

However, it is with a heavy heart that I announce I have abandoned this book over 50% in. I can’t stand it. I now hate Egypt, parallel worlds, and art. Send all of the T’s and P’s you can spare. I am devastated. I may have to pivot to YA for a palate cleanser. Jesus take the wheel.

I adore Jodi, most of her books are insanely well researched and very compassionate works of art.

The Book Of Two Ways is one of my favorite books ever..

"The Book of Two Ways" by Jodi Picoult is a story that explores the memories and choices of the protagonist, Dawn. The narrative shifts between her time in Egypt pursuing her dream of becoming an Egyptologist and her present life in Boston as a death doula. Dawn's past experiences and interactions with others have shaped her, and she carries their stories with her. The story also delves into the challenges faced by Dawn's family, particularly her teenage daughter, Meret, who struggles with confidence and body-image issues. The book skillfully weaves together different timelines and places, allowing readers to witness Dawn's personal growth and the impact she has on others. While the scientific aspects of the story could have been pared down, the overall narrative is engaging and thought-provoking.

I am not sure how I rate this book yet. Good story but I can see why some did not finish or got confused.

I like that it was written in a circle. That was intentional.

I almost gave up in the beginning due to all the stuff about Egyptology but I'm glad I stuck with it. Nothing in the book is tidy including the open-ended ending.

I’m on the fence with this one. There were parts I really loved, but there was a tonne of reading in between. While I appreciate the research that went into this book, I don’t believe we had to suffer and read through it. I was ALWAYS guaranteed a fantastic read from this author, but her last two books have me perplexed. I’ll be deep diving reviews before purchasing her next one
emotional inspiring sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I disliked Dawn from the first page.

In typical Picoult fashion, this book is impeccably researches, makes you fall in love with the characters, helps you remember that the world is not just black and white, messes with your heart a bit, and is impossible to put down. It’s a fascinating perspective on the road not taken, tied together with Ancient Egyptian history and of course a bit of drama.

I’ll venture to say that this may be her best book yet!