| Product: |
Keeping Faith - Jodi Picoult |
| Date: |
01.01.08 (252 review reads) |
| Rating: |
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Advantages: Totally absorbing read
Disadvantages: none
I am a big fan of the author Jodi Picoult, and one of the things I like most about her is that every time she writes, she takes on a new and sometimes controversial subject. This is certainly the case in 'Keeping Faith' which is the latest book of hers I have read.
It is quite controversial because at the centre of the story is a seven year old girl named Faith who claims that God talks to her. Not only that, but she sees God as a woman. As the book progresses strange things keep happening such as Faith apparently bringing her grandmother back to life after a fatal heart attack, curing a young child of aids, and herself receiving all the signs of stigmata.
Alongside this is the more interesting element of the story which is all about what happens when the world finds out about this young girl and how all sorts of people want a piece of the action. Faith and her mum, Mariah, soon discover that their lives are no longer their own, as thousands of people camp at the end of their driveway, all wanting a piece of Faith. I found this aspect of the story very compelling (and also quite disturbing) because it seemed such an accurate portrayal of the media driven world we live in.
Early on in the story, Faith's parents have separated and the latter part of the book is all about the custody battle they go through - both thinking that they are the best one to protect their daughter. This part of the story was also completely gripping, and as all characters were totally believable, you really feel for what they are going through!
It is a strange story to read though because of the content. I came at it with a bit of a sceptical stance not holding any strong convictions myself. Because of this I found it difficult to believe in some of the events in the story. I also found myself wondering what it would be like to be reading this book if one was a strong believer. Would it be offensive or would it be more believable? I don't know the answer to that one! However, at the end of the day, I don't think it really matters what the reader believes and Jodi Picoult does not actually do anything to either prove or disprove what happens to Faith. I think the book is worth reading because of the human aspects and what happens to a family that not only is torn apart, but then finds themselves in a situation far beyond their widest imaginings!
The main chracter Mariah is very strong and I did feel myself warming to her and wanting to be on her side. I always say that one of the marks of a good book is when you care enough about the characters and that is certainly true in this book.
I did feel that it was a bit slow to start with but from about half way through i was totally absorbed and not wanting to put the book down. It certainly didn't disappoint all the way to it's riveting end!
'Keeping Faith' is published by Hodder. My paperback version has over 450 pages and has a RRP of £6.99.
Summary: Jodi Picoult at her best!
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