My Sister's Keeper Study Guide

Jodi Picoult: A Concise Biography

Jodi Picoult, born on May 19, 1966, in Nesconset on Long Island, New York, is an American author renowned for her gripping, issue-driven novels. She attended Princeton University, where she graduated with a degree in English, and later earned a master's degree in education from Harvard University. Picoult began her writing career with short stories, but she gained widespread recognition with her novels, which often delve into complex ethical and moral dilemmas.

Her works are characterized by meticulous research, multidimensional characters, and narrative structures that often include multiple viewpoints. Some of her most acclaimed novels include "The Pact" (1998), "Nineteen Minutes" (2007), and "House Rules" (2010). Over the years, Picoult has received several literary awards and honors, including the New England Bookseller Award for Fiction in 2003. As of today, she continues to be a prominent voice in contemporary fiction, with many of her books adapted into films and television series.

Historical and Literary Context for "My Sister's Keeper"

"My Sister's Keeper," published in 2004, is one of Jodi Picoult's most celebrated novels. The story revolves around Anna Fitzgerald, a young girl who was conceived to be a genetic match for her older sister, Kate, who suffers from leukemia. When Anna files a lawsuit for medical emancipation to gain control over her own body, the narrative delves into the ethical complexities of medical decision-making, familial obligations, and individual rights.

Historical Context

Medical Advancements: The novel was published at a time when advancements in genetic engineering and stem cell research were headline news. The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, had unlocked new possibilities for genetic manipulation, raising ethical questions that are central to the novel.
Bioethics: The early 2000s saw increasing public discourse on bioethical issues, particularly surrounding the rights of patients and the moral implications of genetic interventions. The novel taps into these debates, reflecting societal anxieties and the evolving landscape of medical ethics.

Literary Context

Multi-Viewpoint Narratives: "My Sister's Keeper" employs a narrative structure with multiple viewpoints, a technique Picoult uses to give depth to her characters and present a holistic view of the ethical dilemmas. This style is reminiscent of the works of authors like William Faulkner and Virginia Woolf, who also used multiple perspectives to enrich their storytelling.
Issue-Driven Fiction: Picoult's work fits within a tradition of issue-driven fiction, where the plot is propelled by contemporary social or ethical issues. This genre aims not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and discussion among readers, similar to the works of authors like John Grisham and Barbara Kingsolver.

"My Sister's Keeper" remains a poignant exploration of the intersections between medical science, ethics, and family dynamics, resonating with readers for its emotional depth and moral complexity.

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