I just finished reading By Any Other Name, and I must say, it completely captivated me! As a fan of historical fiction, particularly those that intertwine real historical figures with rich storytelling, this title piqued my interest immediately. The hook of exploring the life of Emilia Bassano—who some argue is the true author of Shakespeare’s plays—was irresistible. The novel promises to reveal two women’s journeys through the oppressive barriers of their respective times, and I was ready to dive in.
The dual narrative structure of the book was one of my favorite elements. Melina Green, a struggling modern playwright, finds herself exploring her roots through the historical figure Emilia Bassano, living in 1581. I found this connection fascinating, as both women faced enormous struggles in their quests for artistic expression. Melina’s contemporary voice beautifully complements Emilia’s historical narrative, creating a tapestry that showed the timeless nature of women’s experiences in a male-dominated world. The themes of ambition and desire are skillfully woven together, presenting the cost of creativity in both the Elizabethan period and today.
That said, I did notice a couple of drawbacks that some other readers pointed out, and I can understand their perspectives. A few reviews mentioned a slightly uneven pacing in the middle of the book, and I can agree that while the beginning was gripping, certain sections felt a bit drawn out. I found myself wanting to rush through some passages to get back to the more invigorating parts of the story. However, I appreciated the rich detail and the background provided, as it added to the immersive experience.
One aspect that truly resonated with me was the idea of women needing to conceal their true selves to thrive, a point elaborately captured in the book’s description: “Should a writer do whatever it takes to see her story live on . . . no matter the cost?” Both Emilia and Melina grapple with this question, and I felt that their struggles were not only historical but also painfully relevant today. Whether it was Emilia’s choice to pay Shakespeare to front her work or Melina’s decision to submit her play under a male pseudonym, these dilemmas ignited a fire within me. The author, Jodi Picoult, has vividly given life to Emilia Bassano, ensuring that her name will no longer languish in obscurity, and I felt as if I was privy to a vital piece of history.
On the other hand, a few readers highlighted that the resolution fell a bit short for them, feeling perhaps too tidy given the depth of the struggles faced. While I see the merit in this critique, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. Sometimes, I felt the need for closure and resolution to be vital for characters who had suffered so much.
In summary, By Any Other Name is an ambitious, well-researched historical fiction that balances two timelines beautifully while addressing relevant themes of women’s rights and creative expression. While the pacing has its moments of unevenness, I found Picoult’s ability to weave the personal and political to be extraordinary. For anyone who enjoys historical fiction that resonates deeply with contemporary issues, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Emilia and Melina’s journeys are timeless and beautifully drawn, leaving me both informed and inspired. Ultimately, it’s a tale that not only entertains but also encourages us to think critically about the narratives we choose to tell—and who gets to tell them.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
“Discover a captivating journey in By Any Other Name: A Novel.” >>