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A review by nicamas
A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
A great book, very cleverly written going back in time chronologically from an opening chapter dealing with a current, tense, shooting/hostage situation in an abortion clinic, back through the day, discovering hour by hour each of the main characters (the negotiators, his family members who are amongst the hostages, the hostages who are staff and patients of the clinic) back story and how they arrived to their situation in the shootout.
Interestingly, the story does go into some detail of how/what happens during abortion but this is mostly in the final chapters as you go back to earlier in the day... be warned though, this may be triggering to individuals to read. I imagine there are a lot of people who would avoid this story due to that side of the nature.
But it tells a compelling story of emotional connections, choices that are made for whichever sets of reasons in the moment, and how they affect/may stay with you for life. In this case, it goes into some political depth too as it affects greatly the southern states of America where abortion/termination is greatly influenced by religion and law, making the 'choice' for woman actually very difficult to obtain. In the UK, we are more diverse and I imagine (I've never sought a terminaton) it is easier and safer to access if required, though nonetheless emotional a decision to have to make.
Of course, as well as the emotional aspect of the story, you also have the criminal violence/hostage situation going on.
Overall, a great read. Jodie's books are always a good read though, I've read a few of hers.
Interestingly, the story does go into some detail of how/what happens during abortion but this is mostly in the final chapters as you go back to earlier in the day... be warned though, this may be triggering to individuals to read. I imagine there are a lot of people who would avoid this story due to that side of the nature.
But it tells a compelling story of emotional connections, choices that are made for whichever sets of reasons in the moment, and how they affect/may stay with you for life. In this case, it goes into some political depth too as it affects greatly the southern states of America where abortion/termination is greatly influenced by religion and law, making the 'choice' for woman actually very difficult to obtain. In the UK, we are more diverse and I imagine (I've never sought a terminaton) it is easier and safer to access if required, though nonetheless emotional a decision to have to make.
Of course, as well as the emotional aspect of the story, you also have the criminal violence/hostage situation going on.
Overall, a great read. Jodie's books are always a good read though, I've read a few of hers.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Hate crime, and Abortion
Trigger warning- aborton/termination details