Essay Questions

How does Jodi Picoult use the first seconds of life to bring out the imagery of hearing?

Immediately after giving birth, Ketie becomes unconscious and Sarah has to think on how to handle Katie's baby. The umbilical cord of the toddler is purple. Sarah is scared and her hands are quaking but she can get hold of the scissors though they are corroded. The cords begin to spur blood and the baby starts to cry. Sarah thinks that there is no hope and she requests God to take the toddler. The cry of the baby depicts the sense of hearing to the reader. Additionally, Sarah's request to God shows how insensitive she can be at difficult moments.

How does the irony of Ketie manifest itself in the “Plain Truth” by Jodi Picoult?

Ketie Fisher tells people around her that she is a virgin and swears that she will not engage in sexual intercourse before she weds. Ironically, Ellie is aware that Ketie is pregnant and wonders how comes a virgin gets pregnant. Ellie tells Ketie sarcastically, “So now we have a virgin birth.” However, Ketie is still in denial that she is a virgin but forgets that people around here are not stupid to take her lies.

The author uses Sara and Aaron to convey the theme of love and family. Briefly explain.

The love of Sarah for her children is unquestionable, but Aaron seems to love his religion than he does to his family. Sarah demonstrates real parental love towards the family. She makes mistakes as any other human being but that does not hinder her from being a good mother. For instance, for her grandson's sake, she leaves with Ketie. Aaron loves religion too much to an extent he neglects his son called Jacob. Aaron will not treat Ketie's child in any better way but the same as his son.