A Timely Story

In Picoult’s latest novel, race relation is explored. Ruth Jefferson, an African American labor and delivery nurse at a CT hospital is ordered by parents of a newborn not to touch their baby. The parents are white supremacists, thus Ruth is dismisses from the baby’s care. What follows is a nightmare for both Ruth and the parents and the hospital. This is a very compelling read with strong plot and characters.

Warmth for a Cold Day

Another funny read from Elinor Lipman, On Turpentine Lane is a light and delightful story of a woman, her new house, the mysteries that come with it, a bad boyfriend and a great coworker. What elevates this book above a cozy tale is Lipman’s characteristic cultural insight and wit. Elements of mystery and romance keep the plot moving. Perfect for someone looking for some warmth and brightness at the end of a cold New England winter. (There’s also a cameo recognizable to local readers: all of that snow from the winter of ’14-’15 snowpacalypse.)

Reviewed by Pam.