Jodi Picoult’s The Book of Two Ways captivates with its intricate storytelling and rich character development. Reviewers praise its emotional depth and exploration of life choices. However, some criticize the heavy focus on Egyptology, which may overwhelm readers not fascinated by the subject. Despite mixed feelings on pacing, the novel is largely considered a thought-provoking read.

Readers who enjoy Jodi Picoult's The Book of Two Ways are often captivated by intricate emotional landscapes, ethical dilemmas, and layered storytelling. Fans of The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and Life After Life by Kate Atkinson will appreciate the novel's intertwining narratives and exploration of parallel lives.

The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult is the story of Dawn Edelstein, who journeys into her past in order to determine her future, as she travels from Boston to Egypt to rediscover her previous life and love. The novel is split into two narrative threads, one following Dawn’s life in Boston with her husband and daughter, and the other her travels to Egypt to revisit her past.

Emotional / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Mysterious / Inspirational

- The book draws upon extensive research Jodi Picoult conducted into Egyptology, including a trip to Egypt to ensure the authenticity of the novel's details related to ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices.
- The Book of Two Ways was indirectly inspired by Picoult's own experience with a near-fatal plane crash during a research trip to promote another one of her novels.
- Jodi Picoult explores the concept of multiverse and the branching paths in life, themes which were influenced by her interest in quantum mechanics and its depiction in popular science literature.

**Dawn Edelstein**  
A thoughtful and unconventional protagonist who balances her work as a death doula with her past studies in Egyptology, living in Boston with her husband Brian and daughter Meret.

**Wyatt Armstrong**  
Dawn's first love and a fellow Egyptology enthusiast whom she met during an archaeological dig in Egypt, possessing a complex mix of charm and personal insecurities.

**Brian Edelstein**  
Dawn's supportive husband who works as a physicist, known for his logical approach to solving problems and his deep care for Dawn and their daughter Meret.

**Meret Edelstein**  
Dawn and Brian's 14-year-old daughter, who is intelligent and struggles with body image issues, forming an important emotional focus for Dawn.

**Win (Winifred) Morse**  
Dawn's client as a death doula who is facing terminal ovarian cancer, sharing with Dawn a meaningful friendship and mutual introspection.

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Prologue and Chapters 1-2

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Chapters 7-8

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