Jacob Have I Loved is a coming of age novel for teenagers and young adults by Katherine Paterson. It was published by Crowell in 1980 and it won the annual Newbery Medal the following year. The title alludes to the sibling rivalry between Jacob and Esau in the Bible, and comes from Romans 9:13 (quoting Malachi 1:2). The novel follows the story of the Bradshaws, a family who depends on the father, Truitt Bradshaw, and his crabbing/fishing business on his boat, the Portia Sue. Truitt's two daughters, Sara Louise and Caroline, are twins, and Caroline has always been the favorite. She is prettier and more talented, and receives more attention not only from their parents but also from others in the community. The book traces Louise's attempts to free herself from Caroline's shadow, even as she grows into adulthood.
I loved this in high school. Haven't read it in years, though. Apparently there are quite a few different editions, but the picture on this one, in my mind, is inextricably connected to the story.
