novel Melanie distances herself from Gus. In the film Chris is able to afford bond and is let out of jail on his own recognizance after being charged with first-degree murder. However, in the novel, Chris is specifically held in jail without the possibility of bond because of the severity of the case. Chris experiences a lot of personal growth during his time in jail while awaiting his trial. In the film Chris' father, James, testifies on his son's behalf in court, but in the novel James refuses to testify, as he tries to distance himself from the entire situation. References External links Novels by Jodi Picoult 1998 American novels Fiction about suicide American novels adapted into films American novels adapted into television shows