Jodi Picoult's new book inspired by 'terrible experience' with 'My Sister's Keeper' film adaptation

Picoult has had other novels adapted into films, including "Salem Falls," "The Tenth," "Plain Truth," and "The Pact."


Pop Culture & Art August 20, 2024

Bestselling author Jodi Picoult revealed that her new novel, "By Any Other Name," was born out of the "terrible experience" she had with the 2009 film adaptation of her book "My Sister's Keeper."

Picoult admitted to PEOPLE that it took her a long time to come to terms with the film's changes. “It kind of goes back to when I had a really terrible experience turning ‘My Sister’s Keeper’ into a film,” Picoult said. “It took me a long time to kind of wrap my head around the fact that they didn’t ruin my book. My book is still there. And anyone who reads my book is still getting the story that I intended.”

While "My Sister's Keeper," starring Cameron Diaz and Abigail Breslin, received mixed reviews, it did achieve moderate box office success.   

Picoult's latest novel, "By Any Other Name," explores the stories of two female authors: Emilia Bassano, a historical figure potentially behind Shakespeare's works, and Melina Green, a modern playwright gaining recognition under a false identity. The story of Melina Green draws inspiration from Picoult's experiences with adaptations of her work.   

Picoult has had several other novels adapted into films, including "Salem Falls," "The Tenth," "Plain Truth," and "The Pact."

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