58 pages • 1 hour read
House Rules
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Book Brief
532
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2010
Adult
18+ years
880L
Super Short Summary
House Rules by Jodi Picoult tells the story of Jacob Hunt, a teenager with autism who faces discrimination in the legal system when he becomes a suspect in his tutor's murder, exploring the impact of his diagnosis on his family as they navigate medical, legal, and psychological challenges. This novel discusses suicide and murder and contains offensive language about individuals with autism.
Informative
Emotional
Contemplative
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
189,883 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
House Rules by Jodi Picoult offers a compelling but polarizing narrative. Readers praise its intricate portrayal of Asperger’s syndrome and its impact on a family, commending Picoult's extensive research and empathetic characterization. Critics, however, find the multiple viewpoints occasionally disjointed and the legal aspects overly detailed. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read with emotional depth.
Who Should Read House Rules?
House Rules by Jodi Picoult will captivate readers who are drawn to emotional, issue-driven novels that explore complex family dynamics and moral dilemmas. Fans of Picoult's other works, such as My Sister's Keeper, or those who appreciate the intricate storytelling of Mark Haddon's The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, will find this book particularly engaging.
189,883 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Emma Hunt
Emma Hunt
The single mother of Jacob and Theo who is dedicated to advocating for her autistic son and balancing the demands of her family life.
Theo Hunt
Theo Hunt
Jacob's younger, neurotypical brother who grapples with his feelings of resentment and responsibility toward Jacob while seeking his own identity.
Oliver Bond
Oliver Bond
An inexperienced defense attorney who becomes entangled with the Hunt family and is determined to learn how to best represent Jacob in legal proceedings.
Detective Rich Matson
Detective Rich Matson
A detective involved in the investigation surrounding Jacob, navigating his professional duties while grappling with his personal biases.
Jess Ogilvy
Jess Ogilvy
A graduate student who specializes in autism research and tutors Jacob, influencing his social development with her empathetic guidance.
532
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2010
Adult
18+ years
880L
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