Plain Truth (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Founder | Jodi Picoult |
| Products | Crime novel |
Plain Truth (2001) marks the seventh novel penned by American writer Jodi Picoult. The narrative revolves around the investigation of a homicide that takes place on an Amish farm located in Pennsylvania.
Plot summary
The discovery of a deceased infant on an Amish farm sends shockwaves through the local community. Authorities conclude that the baby was not stillborn but rather suffocated shortly after being born. Katie Fisher, an 18-year-old unmarried Amish woman, faces charges for the murder of her newborn son, despite her denial of ever being pregnant. Ellie Hathaway, a defense lawyer and distant relative of Katie, reluctantly agrees to represent her. As part of the bail agreement, Ellie resides on the farm alongside Katie for several months leading up to the trial.
Medical examination reveals that the infant was premature and possibly died from listeriosis, a bacterial infection contracted through unpasteurized milk produced by the family’s dairy operation. During this period, Ellie reconnects with Coop, a forensic psychologist and her former partner who assists with Katie’s interviews. On the initial day of the trial, Ellie learns she is expecting Coop’s child; he offers marriage, but she defers making a decision. Ultimately, Katie accepts a plea deal resulting in one year of electronic monitoring, permitting her to stay on the farm.
Katie’s mother, Sarah Fisher, covertly provides Ellie with scissors used to sever the umbilical cord, indicating she was aware of Katie’s pregnancy and present at the birth—details Ellie opts not to reveal to law enforcement due to ethical considerations. The story concludes with Coop arriving at the dairy farm to take Ellie away as they embark on their future together.
Characters
- Katie Fisher: The central figure; an unmarried 18-year-old Amish woman accused and arrested for infanticide following her newborn’s death.
- Ellie Hathaway: A 39-year-old attorney and distant relative of Katie who defends her.
- Coop: Ellie’s former boyfriend, a psychiatrist, and father-to-be.
- Jacob Fisher: Katie’s elder brother who was excommunicated after rejecting Amish traditions and pursuing higher education.
- Aaron Fisher: Patriarch of the Fisher family and owner of the dairy farm, known for his strict fundamentalist beliefs.
- Sarah Fisher: Katie’s mother, devoted yet compliant with her husband’s rigid religious convictions to preserve their church standing.
- Adam Sinclair: Jacob’s college acquaintance and revealed father of Katie’s child.
- Samuel Stoltzfus: An Amish youth employed by Aaron Fisher and Katie’s boyfriend who appears genuinely affectionate toward her.
- Leda: Katie’s aunt who was once excommunicated but has since become a trusted figure within the Fisher family circle (except by Aaron).
Reception
Publishers Weekly provided a mixed critique, commenting on the novel’s slow progression through courtroom preparations while acknowledging its well-crafted setting and complex characters.
Kristina Lanier from the Christian Science Monitor offered a favorable review, praising Picoult for steering clear of sentimentality while effectively conveying cultural tensions and delivering well-researched, multidimensional characters within an engaging story.
In May 2000, Plain Truth was recognized as Book of the Week by People Magazine. Reviewer Jill Smolowe lauded its thorough research, tightly woven plot, vivid scene portrayals, and Picoult’s skillful depiction of the intricate social and psychological dynamics within an insular Amish community.
Film, TV and Theatrical adaptations
In 2004, the novel was adapted for television by Lifetime with the release of Plain Truth. The film featured Mariska Hargitay portraying lawyer Ellie Hathaway, whose surname was changed to Harrison, and Alison Pill as the Amish girl accused, Katie Fisher, renamed Katie Fitch. This adaptation helped broaden the novel's exposure by entering the television arena, thereby strengthening its overall brand recognition.