Introduction
Jodi Picoult is an American author with over 25 novels to her name. Her books are known for tackling controversial topics and exploring complex relationships. But have you ever wondered what goes into the writing process of this celebrated author? In this post, you’ll discover 10 things you never knew about Jodi Picoult’s writing process. From turning real-life events into fictional stories to collaborating with her daughter, Jodi’s approach to writing is as unique as her novels.
1. Inspiration Strikes at the Most Unexpected Times
Jodi’s writing process always starts with an idea, but where that idea comes from can be unpredictable. In an interview, she shared that her ideas can come from anywhere, such as a line from a poem or a conversation she overhears on the train. Inspiration strikes when she least expects it, and Jodi always carries a notebook with her to jot down ideas as they come.
2. The Research is Extensive
Jodi’s novels often deal with complex issues, such as euthanasia or school shootings. To ensure that she accurately portrays these topics, Jodi conducts extensive research. She reads multiple books on the subject, talks to experts, and even visits the locations where the events took place. This attention to detail brings authenticity to her stories and helps readers connect with her characters on a deeper level.
3. There’s No Set Writing Schedule
Unlike some authors who have a strict writing schedule, Jodi’s writing routine is more fluid. She writes when she’s inspired to write and doesn’t believe in forcing herself to write when the creativity isn’t there. This flexible approach allows her to avoid burnout and produce quality work without the pressure of sticking to a strict schedule.
4. Real-Life Events Often Inspire Her Stories
Jodi’s novels often feature characters and events that are based on real-life people and situations. For example, her novel “Small Great Things” was inspired by a news story about a nurse who was told not to touch a patient because of her race. Jodi took this event and turned it into a thought-provoking novel that explores race relations in America.
5. Her Daughter is Her Collaborator
Jodi’s daughter, Samantha van Leer, has co-authored two young adult novels with her mother. Samantha provides a fresh perspective and helps Jodi stay in touch with the young adult audience. Jodi values her daughter’s opinion and enjoys the collaboration process, which allows her to bounce ideas off of someone she trusts.
6. Multiple Drafts are Common
Jodi doesn’t believe in writing a first draft and then sending it off to her publisher. Instead, she writes multiple drafts and revises extensively before the final product is ready. Jodi has shared that it can take up to a year of constant revising to get a novel to the point where it’s ready for publication.
7. Characters Dictate the Plot
While Jodi has ideas for her stories, it’s the characters who ultimately dictate the plot. She believes that if she tries to force her characters into a certain storyline, the story won’t feel authentic. Instead, Jodi listens to her characters and allows them to take the story where they want it to go.
8. There’s No Secret Formula for Success
When asked what advice she has for aspiring writers, Jodi’s response is simple: there’s no secret formula for success. She believes that writing is a craft that takes years of practice to perfect. Jodi encourages writers to read widely, write every day, and embrace rejection as part of the process.
FAQs
Q1. What is Jodi Picoult’s writing process like?
Jodi’s writing process starts with an idea and extensive research. She never forces herself to write, and her schedule is flexible. Jodi’s characters dictate the plot, and she often draws inspiration from real-life events.
Q2. What topics does Jodi Picoult’s writing often tackle?
Jodi’s novels often deal with complex issues, such as euthanasia, school shootings, and race relations.
Q3. How does Jodi Picoult conduct her research?
Jodi conducts extensive research for her novels by reading multiple books, talking to experts, and even visiting the locations where the events took place.
Q4. Does Jodi Picoult collaborate with anyone?
Jodi’s daughter, Samantha van Leer, has co-authored two young adult novels with her mother.
Q5. How does Jodi Picoult revise her work?
Jodi writes multiple drafts and revises extensively before the final product is ready. It can take up to a year of constant revising to get a novel to the point where it’s ready for publication.
Q6. Does Jodi Picoult have a set writing schedule?
Jodi’s writing schedule is more fluid than strict. She writes when she’s inspired to write and doesn’t believe in forcing herself to write when the creativity isn’t there.
Q7. What advice does Jodi Picoult have for aspiring writers?
Jodi encourages writers to read widely, write every day, and embrace rejection as part of the process. She believes that writing is a craft that takes years of practice to perfect.
Conclusion
Jodi Picoult’s writing process is a unique blend of inspiration, research, and collaboration. Her love for storytelling is evident in the attention to detail and authenticity found in her novels. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a devoted fan, there’s much to learn from Jodi’s approach to writing. So be open to inspiration, embrace the research, and remember that writing is a craft that takes time and dedication to perfect. Happy writing!