What if the greatest writer of all time isn’t who we think he is?
In 1581, Emilia Bassano is allowed no voice of her own. But as the Lord Chamberlain’s mistress she has access to the theatre and finds a way to bring her work to the stage secretly. But creating some of the world’s greatest dramatic masterpieces comes at a cost: by paying a man for the use of his name, she will write her own out of history. His name? William Shakespeare.
In present day Manhattan, playwright Melina Green has written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. Although the challenges are different four hundred years later, the playing field is still not level for women in theatre. Is Melina—like Emilia—willing to forfeit her credit as author, to see her work performed?
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I was inspired and felt sentimental in equal measure, the Jodi Picoult has done it again with this lovely book in presenting the feminist voice. This time felt different over dual timelines, which were interwoven beautifully. I felt the passion, the violence was real. A compelling book in the quality the world enjoys from this amazing author. Brendan, NSW, 5 stars
Always enjoy picking up a book by Jodi Picoult. I liked the way she wrote about two different women from two dates who are descendants from each other. They both wrote playwrights that men took the credit for. Something that has been coming out recently in today’s society. With lots of movies and books based on similar stories. Picoult based hers on William Shakespeare and I enjoyed reading this part in the book the most. I love historical fiction. Jodie Picoult must of done a lot of research for this book. Do highly recommend anyone that’s likes historical fiction to give ‘By Any Other name’ a go. Maria, SA, 5 stars
By Any Other Name is an interesting story told from the perspectives of two women born centuries apart.In the 1600’s in London Emilia is a talented writer who is unable to write under her own name. Women are not seen as worthy writers and their opinions are not respected. Emilia enlists the help of William Shakespeare who pays her a small amount for her plays and takes the credit.There is lots of evidence that Shakespeare didn’t write his plays which was an idea I hadn’t really considered. Life for women was extremely difficult and the author describes English life in graphic detail Melina is a playwright writing in modern times who is having trouble getting her play on stage. The old boys network are reluctant to stage the work of a woman. Despite being born centuries apart the two women have lots in common. I really enjoyed this story and I found it interesting and well told. It would be a great book for book clubs Julie, NSW, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult’s ‘By Any Other Name’ is a touching story that dives into the depths of identity, family, and love. The characters are so real, and you can’t help but get emotionally invested in their journey. The book makes you think about empathy and understanding in a whole new light. Once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down. ‘By Any Other Name’ is a beautifully written novel that will leave a lasting impact on your heart. Nicole, VIC, 5 stars
“It does not matter if they know you. It only matters that they heard what you have to say.” Captivated by two separate characters lives over many decades, but yet those lives are so incredibly similar. Connecting different eras with the same passions, struggles, hardships and love as well as twists on popular history we all know. Sara, SA, 5 stars
Jodi Piccoult has done it again. This book certainly got me thinking… could there be any truth to this? The way the main characters intertwined was very clever. There was love, heartbreak, friendship and at the core the silencing and oppression of women back in the 1600’s. For some that have faced domestic violence, there are a few parts that may be a little triggering. This was thoroughly unputdownable and is definately a must read. Tracey, QLD, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult has written an intriguing book with a concept that is totally so so believable. The idea that William Shakespeare did not write all his own plays is not a new viewpoint. Could Emilia Bassano have written some of Shakespeare’s work. Could this brilliant woman who had been silenced by society be the one. The facts that Jodi Picoult researched and presented in this book are so creditable that I believe that Emilia Bassano did write for Shakespeare .A wonderful thought provoking book. Meredith, TAS, 5 stars
By Any Other Name tells the story of two women, separated by centuries, but related by blood. In the 1500s, Emilia Bassano is a talented writer. Yet, as a woman, she cannot present any of her work and so, she must sell her works to Shakespeare so that they can be seen and heard under his name. In present day, Melina Green, has written a play about Bassano that she knows will be dismissed in the chauvinistic world of theater. This story was beautiful, raw, and breathtaking. The writing is flawless, powerful, emotional and thought provoking. The history surrounding the novel was well researched and highly educational. It was gut wrenching to read about the status of women in the 1500s and disheartening to think about the prejudice that still exists today. The novel tackles issues of race and gender, particularly in the world of theatre, and has some truly enjoyable characters with brilliant dynamics that I loved getting to know. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with ‘By Any Other Name’ and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Rebecca, ACT, 5 stars
The story explores characters identity, self discovery and personal growth with emotional moments. There are themes of loyalty, love and betrayal. The characters navigate relationships and challenges they face together. The book delves into the impact of secrets and consequences of hiding the truth and personal struggles. The characters lives are shaped by hidden aspects of their past and as secrets are uncovered, characters experience emotional reactions of shock, anger and sorrow. The characters struggle with their past actions and seek redemption as to whether they deserve forgiveness. Some characters bring out emotions of guilt, regret and frustration. The book also touches on cultural and societal norms on character’s decisions and identities. A brief description was a play writer, poet and prostitution. Who was the one-man wonder, even though his plays and poems were penned by multiple writers. Women were known to write closet dramas for home performances as they were never given a voice. I felt some chapters were very long, but overall I really enjoyed the book and will continue to enjoy Jodi’s other books. The themes in the book create a complex and emotional narrative and characteristic sensitivity of Jodi Picoult’s writing. Gwynne, QLD, 5 stars
Powerhouse Jodi Picoult has the perfect recipe for churning out novels- a controversial topic, meticulous research, memorable characters both beloved and detested. But this is a step off the beaten track. This is her quill poke at the Patriarchy. Because imagine if Shakespeare was not the author of his myriad of plays, poems and sonnets (as has been constantly hypothesised through history). What if it was a woman? Specifically Emilia Bassano. We explore this through dual timelines. Current day New York and yet-to-be produced playwright Melina Green has finally written her masterpiece; a play about her distant relative penning the famous works of The Bard. Her conundrum- how to get it to the stage as a female playwright. 1581-1645, England, the trials and tribulations of Emilia Bassano, a woman who perhaps deserves ‘to be more than a footnote in someone else’s history.’ This is a fascinating read. As a historical novel alone, a lens into Elizabethan England. Then juxtaposed with a commentary on 2020s privilege, power inequality and a zippy Barbie-esque monologue to boot. It’s long. Very long. Could be thrown at someone to use as a weapon long. I feel it could have been slightly pruned without losing any pizazz. But still was completely absorbed; have had a delightful week lost in this book. Katherine, VIC, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult’s new novel By Any Other Name seamlessly transitioned between sixteenth century England and modern-day New York. While times may have changed, women being silenced has not! This was a fascinating, thought provoking and compelling work of historical fiction. Emilia was my favourite character as she was so ambitious, resilient and strong. This is definitely Jodi Picoult’s best novel to date. Kelly, QLD, 5 stars
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult is a novel that investigates the theory that Shakespeare was not the author of plays. Split between Shakespeare’s time and 2003, Picoult cleverly weaves the two main characters Emilia and Melina who are writers struggling to be published simply because they are women. Lots of Shakespearean references add to the book’s credibility. Loved it! Denise, NSW, 5 stars
This is my book of the year for 2024. I absolutely loved it! Such a fascinating story that turns everything you’ve ever been taught about Shakespeare on its head. Both the modern and historical storylines are equally compelling and this book does an amazing job of bringing women into the spotlight through a stunning combination of fact and fiction. Loved it! Ruth, NSW, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult’s “By Any Other Name” masterfully blends historical and contemporary elements through a dual timeline, creating a seamless and engaging narrative. This story emphasizes women’s empowerment, portraying characters who boldly pursue their passions and defy societal norms. While both timelines are compelling, I found Emilia’s story particularly captivating. As a first-time reader of Picoult, I was thoroughly impressed by her storytelling prowess. This is my favourite book of 2024 so far, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and inspiring read. Rhiannon, SA, 5 stars
This was a completely different type of book and story compared to Jodi’s previous books, which I am a keen fan of. The thickness and storyline threw me off at first but as I read more chapters, got more involved in both the main female characters. It leaves you second guessing the past and one famous playwright. And it was as I was ending the book, did I finally realise what the title (signified in the different colours) really meant. Rachael, NSW, 5 stars
By Any Other Name is for you if you enjoy historical fiction mixed with life in the twenty first century. Meet Emilia and Melina, two women who are worlds apart, both with the one goal: to be seen and heard in the fictional world as writers. This is Jodi at her finest, with a gripping storyline, filled with intrigue, romance and a taste of how women were treated in sixteenth century England. One to be added to your TBR pile immediately. Debbie, NSW, 5 stars
I absolutely love Jodi Picoult and her new book did not disappoint. Jodi is such an amazing story teller and hooks you in right from the start. Do yourself a favour and read her new book! Claire, VIC, 5 stars
Telling the tale of two women almost 500 years apart, this tale highlights the challenges women had (and still have) being seen. Filled with hurdles, these two characters persist to find ways to have their voices heard. You can’t help but cheer these wonderful women on and their stories will resonate with many of us on some level. May we all find a way to be seen. Lee, ACT, 5 stars
Just a heads up, I’m a Jodi Picoult fan so when her new novel, “By Any Other Name,” was announced, I was very excited.On reading the blurb though, it didn’t sound like her usual style and I was intrigued.This book is a stand alone masterpiece. Jodi Picoult has done her research and then some. The story revolves around two women; Emilia, born in the 1500s and Melina a modern day woman. Both are writers, both are talented, both are more resilient than they think and both are thwarted by the conventions placed on them by society. How they navigate their worlds and the constraints put upon them ties them together by an invisible sting. Jodi Picoult’s chapters on Emilia are a fascinating study on history and I will never look on Shakespeare the same way again.Emilia beat her wings against the constraints of the time and in doing so forged the way for future women to fly free and Melina need to make sure Emilia’s struggles were not in vain.Whilst the novel is a work of fiction there is so much true history woven into the story as to make it an enthralling tome of how far we’ve come and how far we’ve yet to go.”By Any Other Name,” is an epic novel, large in volume and even larger in heart. Read it. Susan, NSW, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult delivers! Told in her trademark addictively realistic style, supported by research into the lives of real characters, she asks: did Shakespeare deserve the accolades showered upon him over the past four centuries? Did he even write most of the plays and poems? Picoult has me convinced – how did he alone achieve such a huge body of work, whilst acting full-time? Also, how could a man who most likely never left England write so convincingly about the Danish court and life in Italy? Not to mention how a humble actor could write with such knowledge of the legal process. Emilia’s story is addictive – I just had to know how it was all going to work out for her, if indeed it would. The parallels with Melina’s story in the present are extremely unsettling- have we made much progress on the road to equality in over four hundred years? Bottom line, this is a gripping and highly entertaining combination of the stories of two remarkable women, fighting for recognition where men control the narrative. Highly recommended! Heidi, VIC, 5 stars
‘By Any Other Name” is written in dual timelines. Emilia Bassano, whose family were court musicians from Italy, faces many challenges in her life from such an early age in the 1500’s.She is a talented poet and playwright and uses her skills, wit and bravery to survive these hard times dominated by man. Melina is a modern-day playwright facing many of the same challenges today that her distant ancestor faced. It is only when it is thought one of her plays was written by a male that it gained recognition and success. This is an incredible book of many layers. The details of the theatres and life in general and during the plague of the 15th century were very descriptive. The hardships both such talented women faced was very emotional. Jodi Picoult has done great research and presenting this book in such a way that Shakespeare’s authorship will have many more people asking questions. I book I thoroughly enjoyed and will recommend to others especially those who enjoy historical fiction Marg, VIC, 5 stars
You do not have to be a Shakespeare reader to enjoy By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult. This beautifully written story had me enthralled from the start. It has a dual timeline that flows easily. The reader first meets Melina in 2013 when her confidence in her ability to write plays is crushed by a critic. We then follow her as she writes a play about her ancestor Emilia Bassano, a poet who is also believed to have written Shakespeare’s plays. As the reader follows Emilias story starting in 1851, we learn how a 12 year old girl becomes a woman who defies convention and rebels against what is expected of her. Watching both Melina and Emilia having to see their works presented by others shows how even over time, bias can still exist. Whether you believe Shakespeare’s works are his own does not detract from this story. This book is about two women whose determination to stand up and be heard is an example to all. I recommend reading the authors notes, because they definitely give you plenty to think about regarding the theories on Shakespeare. This will be one of my favourite books of 2024. Theresa, NSW, 5 stars
The storyline of this book is ridiculously engaging. Intertwined dual timelines tell the story of: 1582 – Emilia Bassano – a young orphan raised in English aristocracy, educated and bursting with stories. Suddenly cast into a life of a courtesan to a Lord, in charge of theatre in London. She is able to read many of the works that come across his desk, wishing that she to, could be a playwright. Battling against the ages, that notion that women can not write, act, or be anything other than their current standing, Emilia begins to tell her own stories on the pages she keeps close. Eventually making a deal with an actor to sell her plays as his own, thereby seeing her work on the stage, even if history shows them being written by a man. 2013 – Melina graduates from college. Having been told of her connection to Emilia Bassano, she sets about writing a play. It’s a good play. But, she too is hindered by the same archaic male dominated theatre scene & a hatred for a theatre critic that 10 years ago, heavily criticised another of her plays. Wow! This book is a powerful, heavy, and extremely compelling read. Drawing the reader into questioning the male dominated world of theatre, what history wants us to believe & what the truth may actually be. There are some very challenging moments in this book, and as any reader knows, this author never shys away from tackling heavy issues. My heart broke for Emilia many times, at the injustice of her situation & life. Yet this woman is strong, talented, smart, and oh so wonderfully written. The power of the narrative is in making me rage against the patriarchy throughout this book & thinking long after of how we really have not moved forward much at all, 900 years later! Reading the author’s notes was equally as fascinating and shows the extent of research that went into this story. Ali, TAS, 5 stars
I’ve always been a Jodi Picoult fan, and yet she somehow gets better and better! At first, I was slightly intimidated by the size of By Any Other Name, but soon found myself flying through, unable to put it down. Totally different to her usual vibe. Women not being heard is more relevant than ever, and Jodi explores this with her trademark exquisite prose and attention to detail. The dual timelines (1500s and present-day) worked effortlessly. You can tell that Jodi put a huge amount of research into this, and even though I’m not previously familiar with Shakespeare, I found myself engrossed in this story. Both fresh and inspiring, it’s one of the best historical fiction novels I’ve read. Ellen, TAS, 5 stars
Fascinating story – loved it Sally, VIC, 5 stars
Jodi Picoult never shies away from a compelling topic, and her latest book is no exception. This time, she explores the intriguing notion that William Shakespeare may not have written all, or any, of his plays. While various theories have floated around, Picoult suggests that a woman, Emilia Bassano, might have been the true author behind some of Shakespeare’s works. Emilia, a mistress to the Lord Chamberlain during Queen Elizabeth’s reign, would have had to hide her identity in a time when women weren’t allowed to perform or write plays. The novel contrasts Emilia’s historical struggles with those of her modern-day descendant, a playwright who must also disguise her gender to succeed. I found the historical aspects fascinating and well-researched, giving a vivid portrayal of Elizabethan England. However, the contemporary storyline felt a bit forced and melodramatic at times, with some discussions coming across as overly preachy. I took my time reading, diving into Shakespeare’s sonnets and checking Picoult’s claims, like the assertion of Shakespeare’s limited education. While I didn’t find this book as engrossing as some of Picoult’s previous works, it raises thought-provoking questions and will spark lively discussions. A deep knowledge of Shakespeare’s plays isn’t necessary to enjoy it. I think this would be a great book for a book club to create these lively discussions. Kerrie, NSW, 4 stars
A beautiful story of feminism, perseverance and empowerment. Picoult has written yet another heartfelt and thought-provoking novel. An inspiring and enjoyable read Emma, QLD, 4 stars
Novel about two women, centuries apart, a woman named Emilia Bassano set in 1581. She was a writer of Poems and Plays for the theatre during the time of William Shakespeare. Two women fighting to be heard, raising their voices through these different eras. Melina Green from the present, wanting her first play to be recognised in the theatre. They both tell of their struggles to have their love of playwriting at the forefront in the theatre. Great compelling book, Jodi Picoult is a true storyteller contrasting two women from different eras who are striving for the one Dream Jackie, QLD, 4 stars
Having read many of Jodi Picoult’s books in the past, I found ‘By Any Other Name’ refreshingly unique with a lighter narrative style and an interesting storyline with the interwoven lives of the two main characters. A story that explores love, self discovery and the role our past plays in our future, this book was less heavy than some of the author’s previous novels which made it an interesting and joyful read while still being thought provoking and emotional with relatable characters. Perhaps the best of Jodi Picoult’s books I’ve read to date. Danielle, QLD, 4 stars
For me this was a very different book to read as I have never read or seen any plays by Shakespeare. The book is written in Jodie’s usual style of alternating chapters which I do like. I found myself having to stop and re read passages as I was unaware that back in the 1500’s women were seen as a commodity for their husbands and had no say in anything. I was quite appalled how badly Emilia was treated, but what a gutsy lady she was to be able to rise above everthing that was thrown at her. In many ways women are still marginalised today in respect to equal opportunities and wages. As it is always with Jodie’s work, a very thought provoking book to read. Susan, VIC, 4 stars
By Any Other Name Jodi Picoult I thoroughly enjoyed this book – split into two time frames – * Melina (2013 – 2027). Her story begins in her last year in college and; * Emilia Bassano, a 12 year old of Italian descent (1581 – 1645) under the guardianship of Countess of Kent. She is playing and making up stories in the garden when she hears she is going to Denmark. Melina is interested in researching Emilia’s story. The first published female poet in England. Melina is trying to prove Emilia could have been the author of some of Shakespeares plays. She would not publish under her own name as women were forbidden to write for the public. Jodi does a great job of telling the story of both women – their love lives, challenges and disappointments in a ‘man’s’ world. Nadine Amber, NSW, 4 stars
Jodi Picoult has done it again, in what I believe could be her most controversial book yet. Not only controversial but vastly different to her usual works. I must admit I struggled to really get into this time, but I have put this down to being an avid reader of Picoult’s work and familiar with her usual style of writing. Once I could seperate my expectations of Picoult from the writing itself, I thoroughly enjoyed this work of art. I thoroughly enjoy a new slant on history from a different persepective and boy oh boy did Picoult deliver. This vastly researched novel has me credibly convinced that Shakespeare may not have been who history tells us he is. I am also not naïve enough to believe that everyone will think this way, hence the word controversial in this reviews opening sentence. I cannot wait to see how this rewriting of history is perceived upon release, and I am totally here for the upcoming scandal. One aspect of her previous writing that Picoult has not swayed from however, is her portrayal of strong, fierce women who stand up for their families and what they believe in. So while I started slowly with this book, it was by no means the fault of the author, but my own preconceived notion of what I would be reading. Picoult has once again turned my expectations on their head and left me unable to stop thinking of her writing long after I have finished reading. Mel, NSW, 4 stars
The title of this book grabs me as does the cover. And Controversy, well that has me in. It does make you think did Shakespeare write all his plays? I liked all the intertwining between the two women and the different eras, and promoting women to work in a man’s world where at those times were hard. As their work was not recognised. My first Jodi Picoult book and it sure didn’t disappoint. I have a few on my shelves and I may need to start reading them. Annette, NSW, 4 stars
I was pleasantly surprised by Jodi Picoult’s latest book. Initially hesitant due to its size and the fact that an American author was tackling Elizabethan historical fiction, I found it to be a well-written and thoroughly enjoyable read. The novel is meticulously researched and the storytelling is engaging. Personally, I preferred the chapters from Emilia’s perspective, finding them compelling and well-developed. The chapters from Melina’s perspective showed that women still don’t have equality in a contemporary society, but I found them superfluous and would have loved to just focus on Emilia’s story. I loved, and appreciated the quotes from various Shakespearean plays and found this authentic. Such a nice touch! Will my mum, a super fan of Picoult enjoy this one? Probably not. Will lovers of historical fiction or Shakespeare? A huge yes! Melanie, NSW, 4 stars
Who knew? I never thought I would be fascinated to learn about the controversy surrounding William Shakespeare’s authorship of his works, but Jodi Picoult has a way of writing her novels that make them so interesting and easy to read. And there were a few tears along the way. Using a split narrative between modern day and the late 16th century, the novel brings to light not only all the progress women have made on the road to equality but also the challenges that still exist for women, particularly playwrights. I am so glad that Jodi has brought Emilia Bassano’s name to light, and I hope she will now never be forgotten. Jodi, QLD, 4 stars
Jodi Picoult again raises issues affecting society, this time combining two stories covering the same theme. One is contemporary and one set in the time of Shakespeare. Both women face prejudice in having their writing heard. Emilia Bassano was the first published female poet in England and suspected to be the author of many of his plays but due to the time she is at the mercy of the men in her life. In the modern setting her descendant Melina Green is a playwright struggling to have her work performed in an industry that favours men. I enjoyed the book but preferred the historical story of Emilia and the setting in Elizabethan England. I found some of the storyline around Melina a little far fetched but overall I liked the book. Sarah, NSW, 4 stars
By Any Other Name follows the story of two woman as they struggle to find their place in the world. Emilia is living in the 15/1600’s which are clearly male dominated times. Woman are expected to be wives, child Barers and to care for their husbands and often in loveless marriages. Emalia is a poet and playwright who cannot publish her work because she is a woman. She decides to sell her work to William Shakespear in an effort to provide for her family and for her works to be seen. Melina is a woman of the 21st century who finds herself in a similar position to her ancestor Emilia when she writes a play about Emilia but does not have confidence to publish the work as her own. The two women’s story follow parallels in two different times. Not being a Shakespear fan and not ever read any of his works I did find reading the Shakespearian verse difficult. But I found the story fascinating that Shakespear may not have written the works he has been famous for. I think this story will spark some lively debates. Louise, NSW, 4 stars
As someone not well-versed in Shakespeare conspiracies it was interesting to learn about potential theories and inspirations of the works. I found it hard to enjoy Emilia’s story initially but as it progressed found it more readable. I struggled occasionally with the language and would’ve liked some more description and explanation of terms. I found that her chapters were much longer and occasionally dragged. While the stories of Melina and Emilia complement each other, I didn’t see benefit in alternating chapters. I wondered if a part-one/part-two structure would be better as the stories didn’t interact. I didn’t like the addition of the play scripts. The use of millennial language such as ‘bros’ or talking about phone contact names was jarring. Melina jumped to conclusions and was quick to temper which doesn’t bode well for a playwright where critique comes with the territory. There was unnecessary detail in Emilia’s story which seemed to demonstrate research depth rather than adding to the story- eg ingredients for washing linens. Once I got past these issues I enjoyed the read. The stories were interesting and engaging. I am not a Shakespeare or theatre fan and this likely impacted my enjoyment and critique. It’s well-researched. I Googled and engaged in a topic I otherwise wouldn’t. Lisa, SA, 3 stars
Although this book didn’t appeal to me, I appreciate that others will enjoy it. It was totally different to the Jodi Picoult I have read. The book is about a modern day playwright who is about to get a play produced under an assumed name because she thinks that she wouldn’t be successful as a woman author just as her ancestor had in the 1500’s. I did find that a long bow to draw. Her other thought was to bring down Shakespeare by suggesting that her ancestor wrote for Shakespeare to get her writing published, a premise I don’t understand. The ancestor story was more interesting than the modern story which I thought was pointless. Gloria, SA, 3 stars
A different direction for Jodi in this intriguing extremely well-researched novel. Not one of my favourites of hers but I appreciate the research that has gone into this. Historical fiction lovers will devour it ! Mark, QLD, 3 stars
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