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The Pact

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Jodi Picoult

The Pact

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Hampshire • 1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

760L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Pact by Jodi Picoult follows teens Emily Gold and Chris Harte, lifelong best friends turned high school sweethearts, who enter into a pact to die by suicide; Emily's death occurs early on, and Chris is subsequently charged with her murder. The novel explores the intricate dynamics between the two families and uncovers the true nature of their pact, leading to a tense courtroom showdown. This book contains content related to suicide and sexual violence.

Dark

Emotional

Mysterious

Melancholic

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

334,580 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Jodi Picoult's The Pact is lauded for its compelling narrative and emotional depth, tackling complex themes of love, trust, and justice. Critics praise Picoult's character development and thought-provoking story, though some found it predictable and emotionally manipulative. Overall, it remains a gripping read that engages the reader with its moral dilemmas.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Pact?

Readers who enjoy deeply emotional and thought-provoking stories with legal drama and moral dilemmas will appreciate The Pact by Jodi Picoult. Fans of works like My Sister's Keeper by Picoult or The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will find this book compelling, as it explores complex human relationships and the devastation of a tragic event.

4.2

334,580 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Chris Harte

An eighteen-year-old who is a talented student and athlete, with a future that seemed promising until he becomes embroiled in a legal case following Emily’s death. Readers explore his past and current relationships to assess his character and sincerity.

A smart and kind teenager with artistic aspirations whose life is closely bonded with Chris from childhood. Her character is revealed through past events and others' perspectives after her death.

A strong-willed and assertive character who is deeply affected by the accusations against Chris, her son. Her character is further shaped by the dynamics of her marriage and friendships.

Chris’s father, a successful ophthalmologist who struggles to confront the reality of his son's legal predicament. His relationship with his family is tested and evolved throughout the story.

Emily’s grieving mother who is certain that her daughter did not die by suicide. Her character is portrayed as deeply bereft and disconnected from those around her following Emily's death.

Emily’s father, a large-animal veterinarian who approaches her death with a logical perspective. He searches for understanding and offers support to both Chris and Gus amid his own family tensions.

Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Hampshire • 1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

760L

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