Best-Selling Novelist Jodi Picoult Delivers Again

Attempting to shy away from her routine courtroom formula, Jodi Picoult explores new provocative and timely topics in "Sing You Home." She assumes the touchy taboos of miscarriage, gay rights and evangelical Christianity all in one read. Music therapist Zoe Baxter is desperately trying to have a baby with her husband, Max. After past miscarriages and infertility issues, Zoe is pregnant and her friends can actually throw her a baby shower. This the first time she's gotten that far along.

When tragedy hits and Zoe loses her baby, Max's love proves to not be strong enough to overcome the agony or stick around for another try.

After more mystifying and heartbreaking events, Zoe and Max's lives separate into what couldn't be more opposite of directions. Max finds God and the church while Zoe finds love with a female friend, Vanessa.

When Zoe and Vanessa decide they want kids, their fate lies in Max's hands. Zoe wishes to use the embryos frozen in a lab from her former in vitro treatments with her ex. Unfortunately, her request for permission comes at a time when Max's pastor preaches against homosexuality and encourages him against helping. What happens next in this suspenseful and addictive novel is surprising.

As any ex-lawyer should Picoult offers balance and truth on these matters matched with the most fascinating details. Her story will astonish readers with her ability to capture both sides of the story accurately.

"Sing You Home" is accompanied with an original CD by Ellen Wilber to serve as Zoe's voice. While you likely won't be jamming to this one on your upcoming road trips, it does add an extra element for Zoe's character.

Picoult never fails at wowing readers with her insider specifics in the courtroom. And her latest research on music therapy, Christianity and in vitro is thorough and brilliantly laid out for readers.

While some of Picoult's novels have been hit-or-miss, the exceptionality of "Sing You Home" matches that of "Nineteen Minutes," "The Pact" and "My Sister's Keeper."

As part of the "Sing You Home" book tour, Picoult and musician Wilber will appear at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center on Thursday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Renberg Theatre is located at 1125 N. McCadden Pl., Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 525-0270.

"Sing You Home" is available in bookstores nationwide March 1.