Join us for an unforgettable evening with the #1 New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult as we celebrate her latest novel, By Any Other Name. We are absolutely delighted to host Jodi, a literary icon whose works have captivated millions worldwide, in conversation with a leading host.

​This will be a definite sellout, so do not miss the chance to meet a true literary superstar, as she visits the UK.

​Moving between Elizabethan England and modern day Manhattan, By Any Other Name is a beautifully written, compelling novel that explores the theme of identity and the ways in which two women, centuries apart—one of whom might just be the real author of Shakespeare’s plays—are both forced to hide behind another name to make their voices heard.

​This event will feature Jodi sharing insights into the creation of By Any Other Name, discussing her extensive research into Elizabethan England, and exploring the powerful themes within the novel. She will also take questions from our audience, providing a unique opportunity to engage with one of the most beloved authors of our time.

​Every ticket includes a copy of By Any Other Name, which Jodi will sign and dedicate at the end of the event.

​About By Any Other Name

​What if the greatest writer of all time isn’t who we think he is?
What if he isn’t even a he?
Step back four hundred years and discover the female author who hid behind the mask of the man we know as William Shakespeare…

In Elizabethan London, young Emilia Bassano is a ward of English aristocrats. Her education has endowed her with a sharp wit and a gift for storytelling, but still she is allowed no voice of her own.

Forced to become a mistress to the Lord Chamberlain, who oversees the theatre, Emilia discovers the power of stories to beguile audiences. Secretly, she forms a plan to bring a play of her own to the stage – by paying an actor named William Shakespeare to front her work.

In modern-day Manhattan, playwright Melina Green finds a woman’s voice is still worth less than a man’s. But, inspired by the life of her ancestor Emilia Bassano, Melina takes a lesson from history and submits a play under a male pseudonym…

​Praise for By Any Other Name

​”Stunning. So interesting, clever, educational, and moving. One of the best books I’ve read in recent times.” – Gillian McAllister

​”Had me absolutely captivated. Jodi Picoult is a genius.” – Jennifer Saint

​”An inspiring work of feminist literature.” – ELLE

​”Timely and affecting. Picoult’s many, many fans will pounce on her latest incisive, pot-stirring tale.” – BOOKLIST, Starred

​”A blend of historical fiction and modern-day settings, the novel gives us timelines that intertwine and surprise. Picoult has done her research.” – HARPER’S BAZAAR

​”Picoult creates a richly detailed portrait of daily life in Elizabethan England, from sumptuous castles to seedy hovels. A vibrant tale of a remarkable woman.” – KIRKUS

​About Jodi Picoult

​Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of 28 novels, including Mad Honey, Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, and My Sister’s Keeper. Her books have been translated into thirty-four languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Several of her novels have been adapted for television and film, including My Sister’s Keeper. Picoult is also a co-librettist for stage musicals and has written for DC Comics’ Wonder Woman. Her numerous accolades include the New England Bookseller Award for Fiction and a lifetime achievement award from the Romance Writers of America. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband and has three children.

​About the event

​7pm – Event Doors

​7.30pm – Event Start

​8.15pm – Audience Q&A

​8.30pm – Signing and Dedications