Jodi Picoult (Photo: Tim Llewellyn)
Please Note: This program is being held in-person and as a streaming program on Zoom. Program details below are for the In-person Option.
Register for the Streaming Option
Jodi Picoult, the #1 New York Times bestselling author, draws inspiration from real-life events once again in her new novel, Wish You Were Here. Set in March 2020—just before the world changed—the novel tells the story of what happens when best laid plans go awry.
The story focuses on Diana O’Toole, whose romantic couple’s getaway to the Galápagos days before her 30th birthday turns into a solo trip when her surgical resident boyfriend must remain in New York City due to the pandemic.
Once there, Diana finds herself stranded on an island in quarantine. Slowly, she carves out a connection with a local family when a teenager with a secret opens up to Diana, despite her father’s suspicion of outsiders.
In the Galápagos Islands, where Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection was formed, Diana finds herself examining her relationships, her choices, and herself—and wondering if when she goes home, she too will have evolved into someone completely different.
Join Picoult, in conversation with New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer, as she discusses the timely book and her research and writing process.
A signed copy of Wish You Were Here is included in the ticket price.
General Information for In-person Programs
As Smithsonian Associates begins to host in-person programs, we’re putting safety first. We ask that all visitors, including those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, to follow these safety measures to protect everyone’s health. Visitors who do not adhere to safety policies and guidelines may be asked to leave.
- CDC and Smithsonian Covid-19 guidelines in effect at the time of the program will be followed. Updates will be posted here as they become available. Protocols such as distanced seating, mask mandate and/or proof of vaccination may be required.
- All visitors ages two and older are required to wear a face covering while visiting Smithsonian locations in indoor spaces regardless of vaccination status.
- The theater will be seated at approximately 50% capacity, and social distancing policies will be in place.
- Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and we cannot guarantee that you will be seated with your entire household or group. Please allow for extra time to get through security and check-in.
- Please view additional Guidelines for Visiting the Smithsonian here.
Note: No physical tickets will be provided to registrants. Check-in occurs at the door with a patron roster.
Book Information
Books for ticket-holders who attend the program in-person will be distributed on-site. They will be pre-signed.
