sanneca reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 123
Didn't like it. Gilbert struck me throughout the book as someone who looks in the mirror, is completely enamoured with what she sees, and then writes 300+ blase pages about it. This book is literally all about herself - and I do understand that this is an autobiography - but she just goes on and on and on about how she's feeling or her weight problems or her love life and it does grow tiresome after about 100 pages. The fact that this book is a NY Times bestseller is what kept me reading, but I ultimately gave up. Lovely cover though.
Rebecca H. (Rebemdee) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 109
I didn't like it and gave up reading it halfway through India; I skimmed the rest of the book and was glad I didn't spend more time reading it. I don't easily stop reading books, I'll tough it out to the bitter end, but I couldn't with this book. I found the author to be entitled, whiney, and she didn't seem to be enlightened by any of the wonderful opportunities laid at her feet. She added every challenge to her collection of woe and misery as more proof her life is so difficult, and she has every right to be ungrateful and complain. A paid trip to Italy? "Oh, so horrible that I don't have a lover to share it with, because I LEFT HIM." A paid trip to India? "Oh, meditation makes me cranky." I just couldn't tolerate it and gave up.
Eat Pray Love? How about, "Traveled the world paid for by my publisher and had to write some drivel that seemed profound to justify the expense account, and then my publisher felt bad that they spent so much money for me to have no fun and marketed the hell out of this book to make back their money."
I don't get why this is a best-seller, other than the ferocious marketing.
Eat Pray Love? How about, "Traveled the world paid for by my publisher and had to write some drivel that seemed profound to justify the expense account, and then my publisher felt bad that they spent so much money for me to have no fun and marketed the hell out of this book to make back their money."
I don't get why this is a best-seller, other than the ferocious marketing.
Suzanne E. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 88
I have to say that I did not even finish reading this book. I have been a voracious reader all my life and I can only think of 3 books that I have not finished in 37 years and this would be one of them. I got this book based on all the great reviews I saw, but found myself completely bored out of my skull with trying to read this.
Taryn C. (TarynC) -
Helpful Score: 60
This was a very annoying book. It's all about a womans self indulgent journey to find happiness while she writes about it and gets paid to do it. Not a bad deal for her, but annoying to me.
Carrie R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 37 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 59
"Eat Pray Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert is "one woman's search for everything across Italy, India, and Indonesia".
It came highly recommended to me. I love travel. I love reading about other people's experiences while traveling. I really enjoy reading about everywhere, places I've been and places I haven't been. But, I really dislike reading about someone who complains about their live. This is what I call the "poor me" syndrome. And let me tell you, this book's got that.
Gilbert's "poor me" went on for most of the book. It was so infiltrated that I almost couldn't finish it. But, I had to. Why? Because I really wanted to hear what it was like in Bali, not because I cared about any of the characters. Well, that's not true. There was an old man in Bali who I cared about.
If you're going to whine and complain about how bad your life is, don't make me read about it for over 300 pages. One or two would do.
The good part of the book? Hearing about Italy and Indonesia. But I still don't really recommend that you put yourself through it.
It came highly recommended to me. I love travel. I love reading about other people's experiences while traveling. I really enjoy reading about everywhere, places I've been and places I haven't been. But, I really dislike reading about someone who complains about their live. This is what I call the "poor me" syndrome. And let me tell you, this book's got that.
Gilbert's "poor me" went on for most of the book. It was so infiltrated that I almost couldn't finish it. But, I had to. Why? Because I really wanted to hear what it was like in Bali, not because I cared about any of the characters. Well, that's not true. There was an old man in Bali who I cared about.
If you're going to whine and complain about how bad your life is, don't make me read about it for over 300 pages. One or two would do.
The good part of the book? Hearing about Italy and Indonesia. But I still don't really recommend that you put yourself through it.
Jamie B. (sashasmom) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 41 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 22
I really enjoyed this book. I loved each part for the info she told about. I felt like I was with Gilbert on her travels. I loved the honesty and vulnerablility of Gilbert in writing of what she went through to get rid of all the emotional baggage. I loved the part about Pray best. Where she talks of trying to meditate and the "ego" won't let her go into a meditative state. Though Love was just as wonderful. I think this book has the capacity of changing your life if you take the info and apply it to your own life.
Karen G. (Catloverontheporch) -
Helpful Score: 18
I've tried very hard to finish this book. I hate not to finish something I've started and I may make it yet. But this has to be one of the worst books I've come across in a long time. I picked it up because I was blinded by the hype, I admit. I thought there had to something interesting in this woman's year of self-discovery, especially to such diverse countries. She pretty much sums it up herself though when she says "What I'm alarmed to find in meditation is that my mind is actually not that interesting a place, after all." And I'm sorry to say, neither is this book. I don't think I'll buy any of the perfume either.
Rebecca R. (Waterlogged) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 51 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 16
Introspective and beutifully written. The author made choices I do not understand but they seemed to enrich her own life experience.
Sheila M. (Page5) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 15
This book has received great reviews but I thought it was so-so; I skipped half of the section on Italy because it was not interesting to me. All the whining and crying about her failed marriage wore a little thin. The sections on India and Indonesia were a little more appealing. And, I really did not need/want to know the details of her bladder infection after several encounters with her new boyfriend . . .
Gretchen C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 15
Elizabeth Gilbert is a privileged woman with no real problems in love with her own teenage style drama. She manages to visit countries with high poverty rates where people struggle to find food and clean drinking water and drolly jokes that it's not so bad because their life expectancy is shorter than ours. I'm disgusted that I paid for this book.
At one point this narcissistic, self-absorbed, spoiled brat of an author comes to the realization that what's going on in her head just isn't that interesting. I couldn't agree more wholeheartedly and stopped reading right there. As Oprah has said, "When someone tells you who they are, believe them. The first time."
At one point this narcissistic, self-absorbed, spoiled brat of an author comes to the realization that what's going on in her head just isn't that interesting. I couldn't agree more wholeheartedly and stopped reading right there. As Oprah has said, "When someone tells you who they are, believe them. The first time."
Catherine C. (c-squared) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 181 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 12
Alternately reverent & irreverent tale of one woman's year abroad. I loved the parts about Italy (eat) and Indonesia (Bali to be more specific, love). Although I found the section about her stay at an Indian ashram less interesting, the descriptions of her fellow worshippers keeps it interesting.
Megan (bananapancakes) -
Helpful Score: 10
I tried and tried but could not get into this book. It is split into 3 sections on her travels to three countries: Italy, India, and Indonesia. I did not click with Gilbert at all and found her annoying, repetitive,and not to mention whiny and too self-deprecating by the end of her Italy travels. And so, I moved on to India, but could not continue. Sorry, not for me I guess!
Anne P. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 30 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 9
I don't ever want to travel around the world with Gilbert again! I stumbled hopefully through Italy, struggled for months through India, and had my disappointment realized in Indonesia. A narcissitic tale of an uninteresting person on a boring trip. I'm staying home next time.
Laura R. (isitfriday) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 170 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
I am sorry, but i do not get all the buzz around this book, my friends all talked about it, it was everywhere I looked, so I borrowed it from a friend... I could not understand the hype- I found the author self-centered, selfish and odd - to be honest I was only able to get through the first 50 pages, I was bored with this book, and thankfull that the chapters were so short, so it gave me a break to put the book down, which I did a lot. I could not get through it. I guess I am one who does not need an indian guru, that part just put me over the line of not wanting to continue to read this. no thank you.
Marsha K. (jkitil) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
This is such a wonderful book and an engaging read. After a harrowing divorce and breakup, the author goes on a journey to find pleasure through eating, meditates/does yoga to experience God, and then finds balance in her life among everything (and is able to find love). I completely loved the part where she attempts to describe the "indescribable" happiness that everyone searches for. Beauty writing. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves Italian food and/or is open to eastern spiritual experiences.
Lindsey B. (Lindsb) -
Helpful Score: 7
This book was fabulous! I can understand the woman's quest for happiness. I think approaching the dilemma with a journey, that took her through everything she required for happiness, was moving. After reading the book I hopped online and booked my next vacation.
Caryn S. (Caryn9802) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 91 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
What an enjoyable read. Let author Elizabeth Gilbert take you on a spiritual and pleasurable journey through Italy, India and Indonesia. This book should make you feel like more of a complete person.
Cassandra F. (rkstarcass) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 5
Could not bring myself to finish this book. I felt tourtered by the fact I was forcing myself to read this. She just wines too much.
Marci and Duane S. (flame60) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 200 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I really liked this book. I liked the Pray and Love sections better than the Eat section. In fact , I almost didn't finish the book, as the eat section was so long. It was well worth reading. This is definitely, in my opinion, a single woman's book, however.
Sheila W. (sgw1111) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 5
This is one person's story of finding herself after a troubled divorce; for the first time in her life she is forced to find not only what she wants, but to go through it by herself. She realizes that she is intrigued by the Italian language and commits to learn it as she follows it to Italy; she follows spiritual leaders and learns that their teachings are not only for the locals, but for those that are willing to learn; and she finally learns to love herself and to see the world in a much different way. I love this book!
Julie E. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 213 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
Maybe i am missing something but i thought this book was just plain boring. The women whines the entire book about how bad her life is instead of enjoying the wonderful places she is staying. Really annoying.
Ann M. (annmarin) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 23 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
This just came across like a total whine-fest to me. Every other page, she's bursting out into tears, curling up into a ball, etc etc. Is she critically ill? Did she lose a loved one? Is she 300lbs overweight? No, she's a 30-something statuesque blonde and she just got PAID to take a year off to travel to India, Italy and Bali (was it Bali? I can't remember--insert island paradise here--)after SHE decides to dump her husband. Poor thing, huh? Along the way she somehow charms all manner of persons to come to her rescue, as the reader struggles to get to the end. Oh, and the end.... just wait and see what her "epiphany" is....geez...
Amy O. (nattyj) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I really wanted to like this book, but I just don't see what all the hype is that this book is getting. I liked that she wanted to start over and find herself. However, she could have summed all that she learned into a 500 word essay. Most of the book is a boring snooze fest. I really had to work to finish this one.
Denise S. (Denise547) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This was my book club selection, and there must be something wrong with me because everybody else LOVED it. I hated it. In fact, I couldn't even force myself to finish it.
I found the dialogue dull, boring and flat. I thought the author was self-absorbed, self-indulgent, self-centered, selfish and a slut. Several reviewers referred to this book as "insightful"; my response to them is "huh"? I guess I missed that page.
This is just my opinion, I know I am in a minority.
I found the dialogue dull, boring and flat. I thought the author was self-absorbed, self-indulgent, self-centered, selfish and a slut. Several reviewers referred to this book as "insightful"; my response to them is "huh"? I guess I missed that page.
This is just my opinion, I know I am in a minority.
Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
Helpful Score: 4
I liked the author's humorous writing style. I also related to many of her thoughts and feelings; perhaps because we are the same age. I enjoyed the Italy and Indonesian chapters, but did not enjoy the India chapter. The India chapter focused on spirituality, yoga, meditiation etc. but IMHO the other chapters were more universal because they discussed love, food, and friendship.
Jean C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This book wasn't as good as I had expected it to be given the rave reviews that it has received. I found the author somewhat shallow and self absorbed. I felt like I was reading a memoir written by a teenage girl from the 60's trying to "find" herself. The first half was actually more interesting than the last half. It was just an OK book; not very memorable.
Cindy F. (cynf) -
Helpful Score: 4
I didn't expect much from this book because of all the hype. I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, the author was self-absorbed and the cause of most of her problems, that was the point. This book was her story of her journey, how could it not be self absorbed?
It appears that after her year of introspection she discovered it wasn't anyone elses fault she didn't like her life and figured out what she wanted. Ok, so she had the ability to indulge a year of her life to try to figure things out - lucky her. However, many people spend their entire lives try and never figure out how to balance their checkbook let alone how to be content. Good for her.
I liked her friendly humerous style of writing and found this to be quite a pleasant read. While I am not consumed with the desire to run off to an asharam in India I wouldn't mind a few months in Italy.
It appears that after her year of introspection she discovered it wasn't anyone elses fault she didn't like her life and figured out what she wanted. Ok, so she had the ability to indulge a year of her life to try to figure things out - lucky her. However, many people spend their entire lives try and never figure out how to balance their checkbook let alone how to be content. Good for her.
I liked her friendly humerous style of writing and found this to be quite a pleasant read. While I am not consumed with the desire to run off to an asharam in India I wouldn't mind a few months in Italy.
DR A. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
A woman finds herself panicking in her marriage when she realizes her husband wants children and she does not. She bails on her marriage, hooks up (briefly) with a much younger man and then moves on to take a year off to "find herself" traveling to Italy, Indonesia and other parts unknown. A lot of self-indulgent navel-gazing, but well written and interesting.
Susan B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 4
I can't get through this book. I keep hoping it will get better, I'm about half way through and I've moved on. I got the book b/c, on the rare (VERY RARE)times that I've tuned into Oprah, she was raving about this book - what a big disappointment. I'm sticking to the NY Times best seller list from now on.
Tracy M. (readingfan) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 19 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
I could not get into this book at all. The woman is constantly whining and droning on and on about basically nothing at all. I skipped many pages and finally just gave up.
Jeanette R. (thebeakeeper) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 167 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
THIS BOOK WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOO BORING! it took me forever to read it. the author is such a selfish lazy wench and i am so bitter that i spent money on this piece of crap! the one f.a. who told me the author sounded totally immature and ridiculous and too politically correct was right! she had a boring life and she was just trying to sell as many books as she can. the author also has no flow to her writing. basically shes this immature biatch whos a spoiled rotten brat and decides, oh, i dont want to be married anymore cuz im bored. so she up and leaves her husband (what the?) and decides to travel. she acts and writes like a teenager- grow up! she travels around and talks about men like shes 15 and finally sleeps around and it makes me want to barf. the entire time acting so high and mighty. ugh. no thanks oprah!
Eleni P. (justleni) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 127 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I felt both immense pleasure and painfully anguish while reading this book. Upon first glance, I thought to myself.."wow, this woman is actually a good writer" Her prose witty, her descriptions exciting... and then about 30 pages in I though "Wow, this woman is really self-absorbed".
Another reviewer put it best "...the overall effect was rather like sitting at a party listening to someone tell a long involved story all about themselves, and you're alternately annoyed and fascinated and you want to get up and leave but she's just so entertaining that you keep telling yourself you'll leave in the next minute--and so you end up sticking through the whole thing".
In the end, I enjoyed the description, felt the author was self-absorbed and also had difficulties with her personal views on love - which can be summed up as leave the husband you are married to (even though he has done nothing wrong but give you stability), fall in love immediately with the next guy who comes along and talk about it incessantly like you are 14 rather than 34, travel the world and instead of waking up and experiencing everything around you -continue to obsess on the your ex-boyfriend who was your rebound from your ex-husband then decide you are so spiritually enlightened that you can move on because you have found an older Brazilian man take care of you (and eventually marry ) who appreciates how narcissistic you are...
Ok- perhaps that is a bit too mean. If you can read the descriptions of the wonderful places she has been and discover some of the spiritual depth beneath her self-absorbed rants about her love life then you have successfully read this book.
Another reviewer put it best "...the overall effect was rather like sitting at a party listening to someone tell a long involved story all about themselves, and you're alternately annoyed and fascinated and you want to get up and leave but she's just so entertaining that you keep telling yourself you'll leave in the next minute--and so you end up sticking through the whole thing".
In the end, I enjoyed the description, felt the author was self-absorbed and also had difficulties with her personal views on love - which can be summed up as leave the husband you are married to (even though he has done nothing wrong but give you stability), fall in love immediately with the next guy who comes along and talk about it incessantly like you are 14 rather than 34, travel the world and instead of waking up and experiencing everything around you -continue to obsess on the your ex-boyfriend who was your rebound from your ex-husband then decide you are so spiritually enlightened that you can move on because you have found an older Brazilian man take care of you (and eventually marry ) who appreciates how narcissistic you are...
Ok- perhaps that is a bit too mean. If you can read the descriptions of the wonderful places she has been and discover some of the spiritual depth beneath her self-absorbed rants about her love life then you have successfully read this book.
Kristine F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 3
I have now tried, unsuccessfully, to read this book twice. I could not relate to Gilbert's "journey". It was impossible to have any sympathy for a woman who could bank roll a year abroad to find herself. The strongest women I know, inspire me as they manage to find themselves after more adversity while juggling, kids, work, family, soccer, bills, etc. The prose was not well written, beautiful or interesting. I am reposting this book without ever getting past the middle of it. I would not recommend wasting your time.
Jennifer M. (mccullar) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 55 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
i really got into this book, but for some reason half way in i lost my interest. but i did feel a connection with the author.
Toby W. (twright) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 3
I have been slogging through this book for two weeks now, trying to figure out why everyone made such a big deal about it. True, I have found a couple of lines worthy of "post-it-note-on-the-bathroom-mirror" status, but other than that, it's one of the most boring things I've ever had in front of my eyes.
jdubsgirl reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
There were parts of the book that I thoroughly enjoyed. There were also parts that seemed so dragged on. At some points it seemed like the more I read the more pages I had left to read. It was ok but I could have lived without reading it.
Josie P. (braelynsmom) -
Helpful Score: 3
We met tonight to discuss EAT PRAY LOVE, for my book club. As it turns out, I was the only person that read the entire book. Nobody liked it, and stopped reading it half way through the India portion. The book is about a women that goes on a quest to find peace and destiny by traveling to Italy, India, and Indonesia. This adventure takes place after a divorce and then break up to the man she fell in love with after her marriage ended. She is in her 30's, never had children, and finds herself struggling with living out the "dream". I, too, had a hard time reading this book because she is a person that talks to the many voices in her head, including conversations with people (ie ex husband) in her head, and this is so ANNOYING to me. For instance, she's in Italy and is admiring the beauty of a plate of food in front of her and she writes that she hears her ex in her head say, " is this what you left me for?", and she replied, "first of all, we are divorced and what i do is none of your business and second of all...to answer your question, YES." and all the while I'm thinking....FIRST OF ALL HE'S NOT EVEN HERE. HE'S IN AMERICA AND YOU ARE IN ITALY TALKING TO VOICES IN YOUR HEAD....CRAZY!. Other things annoyed me to, like when her first thought to being locked in a room in India was to jump out a two story window. Then keeping record of her conversations with herself ie...me: "says....." and mind: "says....."etc. This makes my head hurt. Or, praying to her guru's dead guru. Really, about that time I was wishing we were reading a joke book about farts! And it just drags on. Then she's sitting in a swarm of mosquitoes and choosing to let her body become a friggin bug buffet as a tactic to feeling closer to God. She said it was to counteract the "westernized" views of not having patience in uncomfortable circumstances, but i feel that life brings enough pain and situations beyond our control...so what's wrong with the "doing" of what we can control? like moving your ass away from bugs that are biting you! and God can hear my prayers just as clearly as yours, and im at home with the ac on! Also, she goes to visit a medicine man, in Indonesia, that tells her about four brothers that everyone is born with in the spirit world. They were embodied in the afterbirth, upon our arrival apparently, and their job is to protect you all the days of your life. After hearing this, of course she gets hit by a bus the next day and flung into a ditch! lol. And who does she go to for help? Yes, back to the medicine man that told her about her bunk ass protectors. And this is the best part....in regard to her injuries, he tells her she needs to go see a doctor! OMG. The doctor she meets is my favorite character in the book, and def made it worth finishing for me. Luv that lady! HILARIOUS. Also, she finds love again which I thought was wonderful in more ways then one. First, no more masturbating to bill clinton fantasies (eww...vomit). Second, i got to live out my frustrations from her being so damn annoying. This of course was vicariously, in the form of a bladder infection, from being oversexed. In the end, she does find the peace and destiny she is looking for, and this lead me to being thankful. Our paths are different, but if they both lead to peace and fulfillment in the end...really, who cares how we got there? I'm also thankful for a clear and sound mind, and being able to find this peace and fulfillment in my own life, and without leaving my country to boot! Also, I am thankful that she was able to help someone else in a very big way*the female doctor*. I have always believed that the most important gifts in life are the ones that keep on giving.
Pamela C. (pj-s-bookcorner) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 885 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I rarely quit on a book before finishing it. Hate to say, this is one of the ones I gave up on. I tried and tried, but just couldn't see the sense in wasting valuable book reading time on something that I did not enjoy. In reading other's reviews, it seems you either love it or hate it. Unfortunately, I fell into the latter group. I did enjoy some of the location descriptions, but other than that a waste of my time.
Candy B. (candieb) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 239 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I couldn't finish this one. I made it to page 67. The author's voice is driving me crazy. She's so... I dunno... annoying. I am just not getting it. Oh well... onward to something else... this wasn't really my bag, but I did try!
Funny about this book - this is the 3rd copy I have had. The first one I borrowed and had to return before I could read it. The next one disappeared. It is NO WHERE to be found. Poof! I bought this one at Barnes & Noble. Someone was trying to tell me not to read this book, so I'm not gonna anymore. Irritating book.
Funny about this book - this is the 3rd copy I have had. The first one I borrowed and had to return before I could read it. The next one disappeared. It is NO WHERE to be found. Poof! I bought this one at Barnes & Noble. Someone was trying to tell me not to read this book, so I'm not gonna anymore. Irritating book.
Kimberly R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 19 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
WHAT A WHINER! I was SO disappointed in this book. A sucessful author with a life TONS of people would envy, and she decides to go half way around the world to "Find Herself." Doing so, she surrounds herself with people who have real problems in some of the poorest countries in the world, and still thinks she's got it bad. Geez, I couldn't finish it fast enough to get away from her. That's several hours of my life I'll never get back!
Peggy M. (ladywing) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This book was a very slooooow read. It took forever to get thru. I'm not sure if it was boring or just a disappointment. There was nothing that made me want to sit down and just read from cover to cover but actually made me wonder WHY in the world I was reading it in the first place. I'd heard such good things about it so it became a major disappointment. I really wish I'd read the other reviews before requesting this book.
Linda F. (lindylouhoo) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Eat was really good, pray was below average, and love was all right. I'd give this book 3 stars at most.
Shelley M. (shelleylmb) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 47 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Not at all impressed with this book. I'm just happy I bought it for 90% off at a book store closing! I'm not even going to try to finish it.
Victoria M. (victoriamorton) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
i hated this book. i only made it through 1/2 of india. i found her to be boring - didn't care about her journey. from others i have talked to it is a "love it" or "hate it" book.
Allison D. (alleigh) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert is an unreadable exercise in self-pity and whining. Granted, it should probably have expected considering the general premise of the book, but Gilbert spent more time talking about her various neuroses than actually discussing her self-exploration. In addition, the occasional sympathy aroused during her various and numerous crying outbursts was lost every time she made an unnecessary political snipe. Is it necessary to reference her knowing how depressed she was because she couldn't even cry when the Democrats lost the 2004 Presidential election or explain that our country went to war just for fun? How is that relevant to journey for inner peace?
In the end, everyone's life has difficulties, and it is not clear why Gilbert's rollercoaster ride is any different from anyone else's ride. It doesn't offer insight for someone going through similar experiences, and more than anything, she just appears eccentric and neurotic. After the first 1/3 of the book, I lost my patience and stopped reading, so maybe my complaints don't apply to the whole book. However, since the process of getting to and the description of living a life of âeatingâ in Italy was less than enlightening, I just couldn't suffer through the rest of the book.
In the end, everyone's life has difficulties, and it is not clear why Gilbert's rollercoaster ride is any different from anyone else's ride. It doesn't offer insight for someone going through similar experiences, and more than anything, she just appears eccentric and neurotic. After the first 1/3 of the book, I lost my patience and stopped reading, so maybe my complaints don't apply to the whole book. However, since the process of getting to and the description of living a life of âeatingâ in Italy was less than enlightening, I just couldn't suffer through the rest of the book.
Paige (qualitybookswap) -
Helpful Score: 2
This book is about an early thirties woman, trying to find herself and her spirituality while traveling to Italy, India and Bali. I absolutely loved this book (I am also in my early thirties and lived vicariously though her travels to two places on my list of I wanna go there's). She's kind of a trip, often shocking, spicy, funny and continually candid. I fell in love with the cover of the book the first time I saw it, new I had to read it, got it and could barely put the thing down. Like a good glass of wine for the early thirties womans soul, this book, so so good! (And she'll have your mouth watering for some real Italian pizza!)
Donna W. (dizzydaisy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I thought the book would transport me to all the places the author visited. Instead, she spent a lot of time complaining about her marriage.
Kristen R. (krissyj8) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I was really disappointed with this book. It is a best seller and has been suggested for book clubs everywhere, but the whole novel was stale and boring. The author seemed to complain constantly about how dissatisfied she was with her life while she was being PAID to travel for a year and to learn more about herself. I resented this message. Very few people can actually afford to travel for a year, and for her to have a downtrodden attitude about the situation it seemed inappropriate. I would NOT suggest this book- do not waste your time.
Bree G. (paisleywings) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 232 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I disliked this book for the most part and pushed myself to keep reading to the end. It was incredibly obnoxious, whiny, and just plain unbelievable. I thought the main character would never stop crying and after awhile I no longer cared.
Suzie F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Could not finish, the author is too self indulgent and I finally just gave up after Italy.
Melanie T. (NanaBear) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 27 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Self-indulgent rubbish. Far too much information about the author's every fleeing thought and feeling and much too little on Italy, India and Indonesia.
Ms. Gilbert came across as extremely self-absored and shallow despite her best efforts to be intellectual, cultured and spiritual. I couldn't finish it.
Ms. Gilbert came across as extremely self-absored and shallow despite her best efforts to be intellectual, cultured and spiritual. I couldn't finish it.
Sallianne D. (traveller) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 80 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I heartily agree with other reviews that this book is highly over-rated, although well-written. The author has had more advantages in life than most of us, and continues to expect everything to be perfect, which is impossible. The travel sections were interesting, but I skipped many other parts since it was so boring.
Obviously the excellent marketing of this book put it on the N.Y. Bestseller List for so long, and this was the reason I actually went out and purchased it.
Obviously the excellent marketing of this book put it on the N.Y. Bestseller List for so long, and this was the reason I actually went out and purchased it.
CarlaG -
Helpful Score: 2
I hated the first part--I thought that Elizabeth Gilbert was way too self-absorbed, too immature for my liking, too trite and wrote too much "fluff." It was difficult for me to keep going. I would not have continued reading except for my reading group. But once I got into the part about her experiences in India. I got the point--it was to show her transformation!
I ended up loving this book. No, it is not one of the best books I've ever read, but as a personal memoir by an "ordinary" person, I think it's pretty good. I loved her description of her act of altruism and what became of it.
I ended up loving this book. No, it is not one of the best books I've ever read, but as a personal memoir by an "ordinary" person, I think it's pretty good. I loved her description of her act of altruism and what became of it.
Marta J. (booksnob) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 412 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed the first section of this book, but lost patience with it after that. I really tried to like this but can only give lukewarm kudos... She is reminiscent of Ann Lamott (her non-fiction) but not as engaging.
Patty A. (bellabooks) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 2
A very good book, but not as great as everyone has been saying. Gilbert goes on and on and on about trying to find herself. She does add humor to her story and that is what helped me get thorugh some pretty lacking parts.
Shelby N. (highheelsonthebeach) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This is truly one of my favorite books. I could read this book again and again. The pages had me in tears (first few!), laughing, smiling, and feeling a whole range of emotions that a book hasn't made me feel in a long time. It is genuine and full of human emotions and obstacles. The vulnerability, transparency, and passion Liz portrays all through the book made me unable to put it down. This book made me want to go on an adventure, to find more about who I am as a person and what I have to offer the world. This is an an insightful look into the life of a woman who would do anything to find herself, as she invites you to do the same.
Fantastic must read.
Fantastic must read.
Dee C. (rmanchego) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 2
A shallow, self-absorbed woman with a book advance writes about a long vacation. I did not like the main character at all and after reading this cetainly don't plan to see the movie. Plus, as I understand it she milked it for a sequel with her lover turned husband.
This woman reminded me of the woman who wrote Julie and Julia (Julie Powell), another self-absorbed woman whose book I did not enjoy.
This woman reminded me of the woman who wrote Julie and Julia (Julie Powell), another self-absorbed woman whose book I did not enjoy.
Rebecca H. (RHENRY) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this. I am looking forward to reading more from Gilbert. The way she explains herself made me feel as though I was on the journey with her.
Cindy M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I hated this book. Oprah recommended this book, and I usually like her book but this I did not. The author is very self absorbed.
Jana S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
It wasn't what I thought it would be. Started out pretty good but as I read, wasn't very interesting.
Rahnell P. (rahnell) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Hated this book :(
Samantha A. (zenbandit) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
There is nothing more annoying than a blonde dancing through life complaining how unfair everything is while getting paid all kinds of cash to travel the world and whine.
Some of us have been through much worse with much less and we rise above and deal with it. I applaude that she was able to get paid to do all of these things but please how is it that this self indulgent piece of nonsense is being heralded. Please consider the source as you read this book and realize that the world treats the attrative and blonde different from the rest of us.
Some of us have been through much worse with much less and we rise above and deal with it. I applaude that she was able to get paid to do all of these things but please how is it that this self indulgent piece of nonsense is being heralded. Please consider the source as you read this book and realize that the world treats the attrative and blonde different from the rest of us.
Shelley C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I would not recommend this book. I found it boring, tedious, and self-indulgent. I give it one star only because of my respect for the written word.
Tracy O. (vandygirl) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I picked up this book on one of my trips to my local Goodwill store and thought I might read it, or I might not. It didn't seem at first that I would be interested, but one day I picked it up and could not put it down. It is about finding yourself, and I think at some point, we all question if we know who we really are. Though I have no interest in Yoga, I enjoyed the authors observations, and I came to a deeper understanding of what it is and why it is practiced. I also very much enjoyed the descriptive chapters about Italy.
Angela M. (urowndisaster467) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed the beginning of the book but half way through i lost interest and stopped reading. i was disappointed i thought it was going to be much better than it was.
Margaret H. (mommy5) -
Helpful Score: 1
This book took me awhile to finish. I did get a little bored a little after the middle of the book. When I got interested in reading again I got right into it. What a great adventure! To me, Gilbert is brave. For a woman to travel without any set plans is very brave in my opinion. I would never have the guts to do what she did. Good thing she can write so well so I was able to experience her adventures, lessons and love through her. The people she met were beautiful and she makes you fall in love with all of them. Even the ones that should be slapped for their behavior. By the time you finish, you end up loving her as well. Totally recommend, just push through that one lull and you will get interested again.
Karen H. (KareninDenver) - reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Shallow but readable. The author spends way too much time pitying herself instead of enjoying her interesting surroundings.
Shannyn C. (Mamaof3) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Ya know....this is a tough one to judge. I really feel it's a love hate kinda thing. At times, it's so interesting to read and others- I was wondering why she's whinning about the incredible life experiences she's having. I personally, can't imagine having the opportunity to go to Italy, to come back and write a book, complaining about how I gained weight from AMAZING food !!
it's really....I don't know. I didn't even finish reading it, I couldn't take the whinning any more. I wasn't happy about this, as people RAVED about this book and I was really excited to read it. A let down, absolutely.
it's really....I don't know. I didn't even finish reading it, I couldn't take the whinning any more. I wasn't happy about this, as people RAVED about this book and I was really excited to read it. A let down, absolutely.
Jamie S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't like this book at all. It is so boring I didn't even finish reading it...
Randi D. (quiltlover) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I have decided that when a book reaches the best seller list it is time for me to reconsider reading it. Every time I read a best seller I am disappointed. Maybe I expect too much!! To me this book was very similar to Under The Tuscan Sun; Not so much in the story line itself but in the overall style of the book.
I felt that I could be reading a day in the life of anyone but this woman happened to be in Italy, India and Indonesia. So what? It would be as if I wrote a whole book on my recent vacation to Mexico. I did plenty of eating, some yoga and some reflection while I was there. I don't need to write 300 pages to tell you that I gained some weight, felt good about the exercise I was doing for my body with the yoga and the exercise I did for my mind while meditating on a raft in a pool.
I felt that I could be reading a day in the life of anyone but this woman happened to be in Italy, India and Indonesia. So what? It would be as if I wrote a whole book on my recent vacation to Mexico. I did plenty of eating, some yoga and some reflection while I was there. I don't need to write 300 pages to tell you that I gained some weight, felt good about the exercise I was doing for my body with the yoga and the exercise I did for my mind while meditating on a raft in a pool.
April G. (criticalcarenurse) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I unfortunately was disappointed and bored with this book, unlike most people who rave about it. I didn't look forward to picking it back up and I even skimmed through the middle. I enjoyed the first quarter of the book the most.
Kimberley O. (stillMagnolia) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 128 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
i'm in the middle of reading it now...it caught my attention because its a woman's journey through divorce and depression, something i've experienced first hand. The book is really slow and i've put it down alot but i keep pickig it back up hoping it gets better...i'm still in India and it hasnt yet? i honestly dont think i'd recommended to anyone?
Jenifer L. (jenglows) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is a big ol' book of "poor me" with some really interesting bits about meditation and Bali culture. I ended up skimming/skipping many, many, many pages because I just could not read more whining from the author. Seriously, you have money, health, beauty and free travel - I just can't feel sorry for you!!
Mary Beth F S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. I felt as tho I was on the trip with her, I have wanted to go to Italy for years, and I enjoyed the conversations she had with her friend from Texas. My favorite chapter #48 and the advice he gives her. It applied to me too...
Kris F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
Self absorbed. That's what comes to mind when reading this story. Love how she forgets to tell the reader the reason for her divorce was infidelity-hers. do not recomend this drivel.
Judy M. (menzrob) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 81 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this book - for the most part. Have to admit I liked the first third best. Liz Gilbert is a gifted writer and uses wonderful humor to describe how she eats her way through Italy. The second third of the book (the Indian Ashram) is well done, but begins to drag a bit. The third part (Indonesia) starts a little slow, but definitely picks up and ends on a very happy note. For me, it was a one time read, but a good one.
Jennifer W. (jenniferwestfall) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Couldn't even finish this one; author is immature and frustrating.
Jennifer H. (BensonBooks) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Hard to get into, I tried but I just couldn't relate.
Shiela M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book took me forever to read. I wouldn't have finished it except our book club decided to read it. Most of us thought it was not worth the time.
Tiffany C. (jtcallaway) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I started reading this and couldn't finish it. I was having a hard time relating to the writer and I think this is why I didn't have an interest in continuing on this journey with her. I was disappointed because I heard so many good things about it!
Sharon M. (sgmensing) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 24 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I couldn't finish this. It started strong but after the first few chapters, I found the author tedious and self-involved.
Shawna D. (MamaAma) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
All of my friends who read this book were either off-put by the author's tone or completely inspired to follow life's path...it all depended on where they were in their lives. I was not inspired, but found the author's story (and her way of telling it) to be an entertaining read. I was not looking for the answer to life's greatest mysteries reading this book-but simply one woman's story as she mucked through the bad and appreciated the good experiences as they came. Read with caution and enjoy thoroughly!
Dena R. (denamarie) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This woman was self-indulgent and I found it hard to care about her. Other than that, I liked her descriptive writing. But I just couldn't get past the fact that the story itself was like one big pity party. I didn't like it. I found her to be very pretentious.
Charlene Roberta T. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
My mom loved this book and recommended that I read it. I found it boring after her trip to Italy. It didn't really keep my interest.
Jessica K. (waylyn) -
Helpful Score: 1
I would have to agree with the other reviewers who said they didn't finish the book. I didn't even make to the end of the Italy section. I too don't usually give up on a book, but this one is terrible. I really don't see how it was a best seller. I don't think I can actually pinpoint what I didn't like about it. For lack of a better word, it just sucked! I'd like to say I wish I had read the reviews before reading, but I probably would have read anyway, since I like to form my own opinion. I find it funny though that my opinion is spot on with the others who didn't like this book!
Sue D. (sau418) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Dry, not my interest.
Jennifer F. (JMF08) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I should have read the paperbackswap reviews before requesting because I ordered this book from recommendations from friends and knowing that it was a bestseller. I thought it would definitely be thought provoking. The book, in my opinion, is anything but thought provoking. I agree with the reviewers that said that the author thinks very highly of herself. I find her very selfish and not at all humble. I've almost gotten through Italy but I don't think I will get much further, this is probably going to be a book that I'm going to give up on.
Lori A. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was highly recommended to me by a friend, and I started out loving it. I enjoyed the descriptions of Italy, the food, her friends, and her voice throughout the pages. To be honest, a short story about her travels in Italy would have been perfect. I begin to tire of both her writing style and the subject matter half-way through India. She started to grate on my nerves. I almost couldn't finish it when I got to Bali, but because I have a self-imposed rule not to give up on books unless they are absolutely horrible, I continued on until the end. It wasn't really bad -- just very tiring. I have to admit that I skimmed most of the Bali section, just reading enough to get the gist of what happened to her. Elizabeth Gilbert is a very talented writer with a knack for endearing metaphors, but she needs to focus a little less on herself - even in a memoir.
Megan M. (MeganM) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This was a wonderful book! Even if you haven't gone through exactly what Gilbert has, you can definitely relate to her feeling of uncertainty. Very hard to put down...a must read!
Henry M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Don't fall for the hype. Contrived and disappointing. You and I would have much more insight to offer if we had had her travel budget!
Suzy L. (suzyqq02) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I wasn't a fan of this book. The whole exercise struck me as intensely middle-class self-indulgent, as if spiritual fulfillment is accessible only for those with time and money to waste.
Karen D. (augieandlourock) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 117 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I hated this book it is about a women trying to find herself.It was so bad I couldnt bring myself to finish reading it.
Christine S. (POOKIE675) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Really didn't enjoy this book. She is way too much a whiner. she was able to take months off for this "personal quest", and who can afford to do this, and whined about it the entire time. I stopped reading half way through. Get a real life.
Jordan O. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I couldn't finish this book. I thought I would love it after reading a summary, but I gave up halfway through the India section. Skipping through the Bali section didn't do much for me either. I'm glad I didn't pay for it. Sorry...
Susan F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book is very interesting. I loved the sections on Italy and Bali. The section on India was less interesting to me, but still worth reading.
Very honest account of a women's journey of self-discovery.
Very honest account of a women's journey of self-discovery.
narita23 reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
Very nicely written with fun and wit. I liked the book because it took me to three different places of the world and gave me an opportunity to taste different cultures and ways of life. Happy I read it!
Carrie S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I agree with many of the other reviewers...I just could not get into this book. Knowing the book to be a bestseller, I went back to it several times to try again, each time I was just as bored.
Larissa B. (mrspinecone) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
How this ended up on the bestseller lists and as a movie is beyond me. Those are hours of my life totally wasted. The book is written by someone totally in love with themselves, which I suppose is a good thing, because I can't imagine anyone else falling for someone so narcissistic. I forced myself to finish it, but I must have been feeling masochistic. Great premise, horrible execution. I would give it no stars, but the system doesn't seem to let me.
SARAH (sukie175) -
Helpful Score: 1
This book was such a disappointment, I personally think it's seriously over-hyped.
ReadingMonster reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
Well, I can't say as though I either loved or loathed this book. It was okay. Beautifully written, absolutely. But I didn't like the author's personality AT ALL; I just wanted to kick her throughout much of the book... shake her and say "grow up already!!".
Cheryl H. (butterflycher) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 24 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't like this book at all. I usually don't walk away from a book ever but this one I did at page 140. I felt that the book was too depressing for me. I was in a funk the days I was reading it and I am so glad to stopped reading it.
Jennifer P. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I love this book. To me it is for any woman who is on her own personal journey in life. I read it a couple of years after I got divorced while I was re-creating myself and discovering more about me then I ever could have while in a relationship with someone else. It inspired me to vacation alone for the first time ever. A great story of change. I can't wait to read the new one.
Teresa H. (WarEagle78) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 337 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
One woman's year spent "finding herself" after a difficult divorce followed by a disasterous "rebound affair." Liz spends months in Italy, then in an ashram in India, and finally in Bali as she searches for a way to find peace, meaning, spirituality, and balance in her life. Sometimes travelogue, sometimes philosophy, sometimes food critic, sometimes almost chick lit - yet somehow it all works. I'll remember this one for a while.
Shelly N. (shellyn1) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
i think with the movie coming out soon i thought this book would be a little better. i might have expected more out of it and then was disappointed. but over all, generally good book. interesting, but my attention went in and out of it. i had trouble getting into the book and the format of it is different than most, sectioned into places and entries, rather than traditional chapters.
Rachel L. (pendlebear) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Not sure what all the hype was about, this was an average kind of book.
Paulette C. (Paulette) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I felt like I was on a spiritual journey right along with the author!
Karen S. (UltaReader) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
Based on the hype surrounding this book I really, really tried to enjoy. I gave up half way through.
Gilberte S. (gilbertems) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
I would have to agree with other reviewers. I struggled to get through "Italy" hoping that things would get better in "India". When Liz continued to be repetitive - whining about her ex-husband, ex-boyfriend and herself I couldn't take it any more. She's funny at times, but even her one-liners get annoying. I was expecting a lot more from this book considering it has been on the best seller list forever - I guess I must learn the hard way that best sellers do not always equal good reading.
Suzanne A. (suzieqzie) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 20 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This author is candid, funny and engaging throughout her story. She flows rhythmically fromone place and one topic to the next. This is almost a self-help book, as she describes so keenly her journey to find herself.
At times, she seems self-absorbed and irritatingly naive in her descriptions of her interactions with others (and herself). But I found my mouth watering from her descriptions of the food. I found myself trying meditation after she told about her experiences. And I found myself looking at my beloved in a new and more open way as she described her lover. in short, she is easy to relate to (because she doesn't hide her own warts or her powers).
When I looked at the title of this book, it turned me off. I thought the book sounded pointless, from the subtitle of her "search for everything", across 3 unrelated countries. She does have a ramblingway of spiraling in on her points, though. She does get there. I found myself reading it until my eyes crossed in bed at night, then again as I cooked oatmeal for my breakfast. Highly recommended.
At times, she seems self-absorbed and irritatingly naive in her descriptions of her interactions with others (and herself). But I found my mouth watering from her descriptions of the food. I found myself trying meditation after she told about her experiences. And I found myself looking at my beloved in a new and more open way as she described her lover. in short, she is easy to relate to (because she doesn't hide her own warts or her powers).
When I looked at the title of this book, it turned me off. I thought the book sounded pointless, from the subtitle of her "search for everything", across 3 unrelated countries. She does have a ramblingway of spiraling in on her points, though. She does get there. I found myself reading it until my eyes crossed in bed at night, then again as I cooked oatmeal for my breakfast. Highly recommended.
Charlotte O. (cchar333) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 30 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I so looked forward to reading this book but did not even finish it. It was just a travelogue of a priveleged woman who did not treat others very well. I was severely disappointed after all the hype.
Fiona L. - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Helpful Score: 1
Didn't finish this book. I hated it.
Christy P. (cpack) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely loved this! Her story enthralled me and I felt like traveling the world myself. She really opened up about her personally story but also gave a vivid picture of the places she visited. Its definitely not the type of book I normally pick up but I'm glad I did.
Julia F. (Farmerswife) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 52 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
It was good, but not great. One woman's year of travel through Italy, India, and Indonesia. Her personal journey is intriguing, especially while she is in India. It is not a page-turner, but worth reading.
Kristi W. (gardenia) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was so incredibly difficult for me to finish. I cannot for the life of me see why it has gotten such great reviews. Ms. Gilbert seems to be a very self-centered person and that thinks she needs to go on a world-wide self discovery journey for some really relatively minor (in the grand scheme of things) life problems. Honestly, I never could find anything to feel so sorry for her about that would warrant writing a book.
Charlene C. (charlovey) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't finish this book. I found it to be a hard read.
Traci B. (tlbrown206) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 82 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The character tends to be a little self and self absorbed but I did love the story of each of the countries that she visited. I hope one day to venture there myself.
Jamie B. (mrsb) -
Helpful Score: 1
Well, what to say about this book?! After all the hype I had been hearing about it, I just HAD to read it and UGH ... I didn't like it at all. I think this is one of those books that you either really LOVE or you really HATE. I found the author to be a wee bit shallow (a lot of me, me, me going on) and to be honest, I wasn't sure I quite believed everything that she wrote. Although, after reading her description about Italy and Bali ... I do now have a strong desire to go on holiday to both places.
The sequel, Weddings and Evictions, will be available in 2009 ... (I don't think I will be reading this one ... )
The sequel, Weddings and Evictions, will be available in 2009 ... (I don't think I will be reading this one ... )
Lindsay M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I thouroughly enjoyed this book. The writing is great, easy to read, but not boring. The journey is inspiring! I especially love that there are so many spots you may pause and return to, it was easy to read when you are limited on the amount of time you have free. I also found that i needed to make notes, highlight and come back to certain parts that i would be able to incorporate into my own life. Overall great!
Genny S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 141 more book reviews
I was very disappointed in this book, but rented the movie to see if perhaps I just hadn't gotten the point. I did get the point. The book is about a woman who got married without a sense of commitment; dumps a perfectly normal husband; has affairs, etc. I just wanted to scream, "Hey lady....get over yourself." The book is about self-obcession and I hated it. Genny
S. T. H. (yo-yo) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I am so glad to hear of someone else who did not like this book. I had a hard time getting through it, finding myself skipping lots of paragraphs just to be able to go on. I will definitely not go see the movie! This woman was way too self absorbed for me.
Catherine Z. (catyaty) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
I loved this book. I would love to have to opportunity to spend 4 months in Italy and learn the language. One look on how to right your life when you feel your going the wrong way. Can't wait for her next book.
Marianne S. (sfc95) -
BORING!!!! The first part of the book on the trip to Italy was the best, the rest was just so boring I wasn't sure why I finished it. I could care less about this prima donna self actualization tour, who would care. This is just another overhyped book that was a huge letdown, glad I won my copy because anyone who paid for it was robbed!
Meghan B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I was shocked to read all the bad reviews... I thought it was really well written and honest to her trip and experiences... i felt myself aligned with much of her thinking (and as some say, whining) but come on, are we not all a little whiney sometimes!? it was genuine and I was jealous of her ability to take a year and find herself... hey, if you cant do it yourself....
Judi A. (lady56) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 48 more book reviews
I enjoyed the book, Parts were a little slow at times. I could not understand the concepts of the book until I had finished it and had some time to think about the overall message - at that point it became clearer. It was a good book to read however I would not pick it up anytime soon for a second reading.
Susan V. (nrlymrtl) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 297 more book reviews
Non-fictional work that follows a woman through some major life decisions. Elizabeth comes realize she doesn't want to have children. Hence the divorce. A messy one. Her life is a shambles and she takes some time for herself. She goes to Italy to learn Italian because she loves the sound of it. She also discovers Italian food. Then on to Idia where she learns to pray, looking inward. The last stop in the book was Indonesia, where to finds the courage to love again - not just herself, not just a lover, but others too.
Shanan B. (yogimommy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 35 more book reviews
I am currently in the middle of a divorce. I only share this fact because I believe my review of this book will be affected by where I am in my life right now. And as I have talked to a few of my friends who have read this book, our reveiws seemed to be tied to what is going on in our lives. If we are in transition (like me) than we found parts that really hit us. But my friends who are content with where they are in their lives right now found the book impossible.
There were quite a few stories/ideas/beads that really resonated with me. In particular, as she talks about her relationship with her ex-husband and David and really getting over those two relationships. I found a lot of food for thought in those beads.
But I only gave this book a 3 because there were other aspects of this book that really annoyed me. First, there was a lot of rambling, and so there was a few times I almost gave up because I kept thinking why am I reading this? Why do I care? It kind of reminded me of listening to that annoying person who insists on telling you his/her life story after you asked "how are you doing today?"
Second, I felt a little bit of contradiction. On one hand she wants to protect the people in her story by not telling the readers who her guru is or how to find the locations. But on the other hand she seems to be trying to help the reader start his/her own journey to enlightenment. How? Where can we start? Can we do it without taking off for a year? I was hoping the end would have some guidance, but no.
There were quite a few stories/ideas/beads that really resonated with me. In particular, as she talks about her relationship with her ex-husband and David and really getting over those two relationships. I found a lot of food for thought in those beads.
But I only gave this book a 3 because there were other aspects of this book that really annoyed me. First, there was a lot of rambling, and so there was a few times I almost gave up because I kept thinking why am I reading this? Why do I care? It kind of reminded me of listening to that annoying person who insists on telling you his/her life story after you asked "how are you doing today?"
Second, I felt a little bit of contradiction. On one hand she wants to protect the people in her story by not telling the readers who her guru is or how to find the locations. But on the other hand she seems to be trying to help the reader start his/her own journey to enlightenment. How? Where can we start? Can we do it without taking off for a year? I was hoping the end would have some guidance, but no.
Jill D. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
She is such a chatty author. I think I enjoy more of the getting to the point and not so much flowery "head talk"
Kitty W. (heartofnature) -
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like it had a lot of insightful advice, information, and stories from which I could learn... and I'm happily married in my first (and only) marriage, and I don't plan to have any of the personal battles tackled by the author. Still, I gained a lot and was entertained by reading this book the whole way through. I would definitely recommend it.
Suzanne reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I was not as blown away as I thought I would be, given all of the buzz. Good writing, but book slowed down in the middle section ("Pray/India") and it was a struggle to continue.
Kris C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
When this book came out, I dismissed it and didn't want to read it. I thought it was some other whiny woman going on and on about her self discovery. When I heard the movie was coming out, I thought I would give it a try, since I always like to read the book before I see the movie.
I only made it half-way through the book. While I thought the Rome part of the book was interesting, I got bored with the India portion, and never made it to the Bali portion of the book.
I saw the movie this week, and thought, "Oh, maybe I should have finished the book!" because the movie was very entertaining. But, then again, they might have added some story lines to make the movie more interesting. Altogether, it's a very romantic real life story, and escapism for anyone looking to say goodbye to real life and live abroad for a year. If only....
I only made it half-way through the book. While I thought the Rome part of the book was interesting, I got bored with the India portion, and never made it to the Bali portion of the book.
I saw the movie this week, and thought, "Oh, maybe I should have finished the book!" because the movie was very entertaining. But, then again, they might have added some story lines to make the movie more interesting. Altogether, it's a very romantic real life story, and escapism for anyone looking to say goodbye to real life and live abroad for a year. If only....
Hanna M. (HannaM) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 64 more book reviews
this book was an honest look at one womans life from her own perspective and i appreciated her honesty and her strength even when she felt lost. it is a decent view of a modern womans fight to find where she belongs in this world that not only expects women to still be the old fashioned care givers mothers and wives but also the hard ass business professionals who bring in an equal portion of the bacon as the men.
Lora N. (kisska2000) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I love reading anything and everything and have picked up various different genres throughout my life. This book was such a disappointment! I could not get through it, left it in India. Fist book in my entire life that I did not want to know how it ends, because in the end I could not care about the main heroin and all of her whining about how sad her life is.
daisyjane reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
First of all, I love her sense of humor, even found myself laughing out loud at times. Having said that, I plodded through Italy-most tedious! Probably because I do yoga, I enjoyed her ashram days in India. Bali-the medicine man & learning about the culture of the Balinese kept me going til the end. I would not recommend the book.
Margaret M. (margaretlee) -
Love this! Listening to it now and will post after I finish. Narrated by the author and the REAL story...not the Julia Roberts version. Much better than the movie!
Karen N. (mscotton) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I really didn't like this book. I was looking forward to reading it because of it's popularity. It reminded me of what's wrong with the world today. Too many self absorbed people going through life thinking it's all about them. Sorry.
Lori M. (lormac) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 120 more book reviews
Ultimately I was glad I read this book. The author is fearless in exposing her character to the scrutiny of strangers which kept me going, and by the time we were in India, she had me hooked. There are some wonderful insights in this book, and some delightful characters.
Ruby J. (rubys-reads) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
What a whiner this author is. Nice concept but a bit much.
April W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
i did not like this book at all; nor did i like the movie. the book was slow moving and plain. she seemed to be very self-absorbed. i can't believe it made the ny times bestseller list. i was so excited about this book because i love travel but was sorely disappointed.
Kathryn L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 21 more book reviews
Gilbert has an light, readable style and good humor. I especially liked the first part on Italy.
Kim G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Best read this year - it's so inspirational to hear how this women suffers from a divorce, temporary poverty, and extreme loneliness and survives. Quite well. Very happy. And herself!
I had children when I went through my divorce so I couldn't leave on a self-journey, but it certainly was tempting to just pack up and leave - she's my hero! And in the end she not only finds herself but gets her man; her way, part-time, and far, far away. And that's okay. As a matter of fact, it's pretty great.
I had children when I went through my divorce so I couldn't leave on a self-journey, but it certainly was tempting to just pack up and leave - she's my hero! And in the end she not only finds herself but gets her man; her way, part-time, and far, far away. And that's okay. As a matter of fact, it's pretty great.
Amber H. (jjabmom) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
GREAT book!!! I loved every part of her story and was amazed and inspired by her dedication in India!
Marley C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
I found this book to be very easy read. I'm not very spiritual but found it inspiring and one of my favorite books ever. So much to love about this book.
Erin K. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
This is the story of one woman's quarter life crisis and her search for the balance between pleasure and devotion. It was actually a lot better than I thought it would be.
Connie H. (conniehi) -
Really enjoyed this book. Like a travelog for three countries that she traversed while creating a balance life within herself. Very detailewith very substantial changes from the movie. I liked the book much better with all it's rich details and story book ending. So many good thoughts I think about reading it all over again.
Melanie C. (melaniecourtney) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
Average. Enjoyed the first part. Had a harder time getting through the last 2 parts.
Jennie M. (calamityjen80) -
Not my cup of tea. This is somewhat highfalutin chick lit, and seeing as how ordinary chick lit is not my bag, pumping it up to a moderately sophisticated level wasn't going to do much for me. She is quite witty as a narrator and travel guide, but also self-indulgent almost to the point of being spoiled. While reading it, I was taken aback at times by what I suspect was unintentional snobbery, but snobbery all the same. I was also somewhat annoyed at her persistent cherry-picking of religions and various spiritual beliefs--taking the best, most interesting, most relevant parts for herself and leaving all the true reflection, understanding, and especially commitment, for the birds.
I also wondered how Gilbert had managed to organize such an endeavor; it all seemed so complicated, all this planning and traveling, and yet she seemed to handle most of it with surprising ease, considering her fragile state.
Then, once I finished the book and did a little research, I found myself wondering what a book like this would have been like had it not been written by someone paid $300,000 beforehand to live it and write it. Then I realized that only someone paid a great deal of money could reasonably afford to take a year off from life, travel the world, and then write about it. This knowledge colored my perceptions of her, of the book, of her true motivations, and made my post-read reflections of the book less favorable altogether.
But then again, this sort of thing is escapism at its best, and that's a cup of tea most people enjoy drinking. I suppose I just prefer a bit more realism in my escapism, and a little less sugar in my tea.
I also wondered how Gilbert had managed to organize such an endeavor; it all seemed so complicated, all this planning and traveling, and yet she seemed to handle most of it with surprising ease, considering her fragile state.
Then, once I finished the book and did a little research, I found myself wondering what a book like this would have been like had it not been written by someone paid $300,000 beforehand to live it and write it. Then I realized that only someone paid a great deal of money could reasonably afford to take a year off from life, travel the world, and then write about it. This knowledge colored my perceptions of her, of the book, of her true motivations, and made my post-read reflections of the book less favorable altogether.
But then again, this sort of thing is escapism at its best, and that's a cup of tea most people enjoy drinking. I suppose I just prefer a bit more realism in my escapism, and a little less sugar in my tea.
Lisa H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Had a hard time with this one. I wanted to like it because it sounded like something I would enjoy but I did not finish it.
Sarah L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I really loved this book! It was inspiring as a person wanting to connect more to spirituality and loves to eat! I think everyone open minded should give it a try, it's a great read!
Emily G. (wiltinglilly) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 33 more book reviews
Love love loved this book! It has been passed around to all female members of my family and everyone agrees: this book is great! It really makes you think about your life and what you should start doing for yourself. If she can do this, then so can you! Have reread this book many times and will continue to
L.S. G. (Invysygoth) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
First off, Elizabeth Gilbert is a charming writer - with a real gift for the post-feminist voice; she's also a wonderful travel writer. The book alone is enjoyable for that reason... but oh my, is she a self-centered creature.
While I'll leave the validity of her transcendental meditation channeled spirituality to theologians and navel gazers... in her embracing of the divine within and without her Gilbert misses something so fundamental that it becomes annoying... to find God (which is the vernacular she uses for the Big Higher Power rather than the Judeo Christian God), to become one with God.. you must serve and dignify others. That's a common tenet and basis for most world religions to some degree or other... and one she misses completely. From what I can tell, Gilbert shares a roasted chicken in Rome with a stray dog and then raises funds for housing for a Balines woman who has taken in a couple of orphans (and then Gilbert becomes agitated when the woman doesn't buy a home quickly enough, afraid that she'll be embarassed in front of her fundraisers)... and that's about it. She spends thousands of dollars to retreat to an Ashram in India - one of the poorest countries in the world -- and lives in relative luxury while exploring meditation... and never comes to the epiphany that maybe she could help the surrounding locals, even just a little bit.
Instead, we get a year of Elizabeth eating, yoga-ing, meditating, traveling and finally screwing her way to personal happiness and fulfillment. Yay Elizabeth, we're so happy for you. But she never really grows, she just gets her own way (and learns a little Italian).
I'm not looking for the author to become Mother Theresa - I just expected her to come to the realization that all real humans come to after any amount of real contemplation of the divine: it's not all about us. It's about a lot of things - but one of the biggest one is how we can love and serve each other, not how much we can love and serve ourself. And before someone pipes up that we can only loves others when we love ourself first... okay. Loving yourself is a step toward -- not the goal of -- experiencing the Divine.
While I'll leave the validity of her transcendental meditation channeled spirituality to theologians and navel gazers... in her embracing of the divine within and without her Gilbert misses something so fundamental that it becomes annoying... to find God (which is the vernacular she uses for the Big Higher Power rather than the Judeo Christian God), to become one with God.. you must serve and dignify others. That's a common tenet and basis for most world religions to some degree or other... and one she misses completely. From what I can tell, Gilbert shares a roasted chicken in Rome with a stray dog and then raises funds for housing for a Balines woman who has taken in a couple of orphans (and then Gilbert becomes agitated when the woman doesn't buy a home quickly enough, afraid that she'll be embarassed in front of her fundraisers)... and that's about it. She spends thousands of dollars to retreat to an Ashram in India - one of the poorest countries in the world -- and lives in relative luxury while exploring meditation... and never comes to the epiphany that maybe she could help the surrounding locals, even just a little bit.
Instead, we get a year of Elizabeth eating, yoga-ing, meditating, traveling and finally screwing her way to personal happiness and fulfillment. Yay Elizabeth, we're so happy for you. But she never really grows, she just gets her own way (and learns a little Italian).
I'm not looking for the author to become Mother Theresa - I just expected her to come to the realization that all real humans come to after any amount of real contemplation of the divine: it's not all about us. It's about a lot of things - but one of the biggest one is how we can love and serve each other, not how much we can love and serve ourself. And before someone pipes up that we can only loves others when we love ourself first... okay. Loving yourself is a step toward -- not the goal of -- experiencing the Divine.
Amy M. (Amyaloha) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 31 more book reviews
A must read. Can't say I love the author herself, as a person, but enjoyed it immensely. Who says you can't be totally self absorbed and be interesting at the same time. My book club read it and loved it. The club is a diverse group of well-heeled woman from all walks in life. One gal had the same opinion as many reviewers, the poor me syndrome Gilbert seemed to be suffering from. Seemed to be is the key, she lets go of some of those traits at the end or appears to be dropping some of that angst throughout. I think her quest had to do with a lot of what we all face, what is this all about? Why am I hear and are my feelings unique to me? She has an interesting journey, one not many could ever afford to do in the real world. But what if you could? The privileged often feel unique, left out, apart from the masses. Probably because their experience is unique, unique to about only 1% of the population. How is it that I am so blessed, grateful and still miserable?
Not quite a fantasy trip, her travels, but an interesting yarn that I relished and truly enjoyed. Don't have to like you to appreciate a well written book or a fascinating journey. I found her take on life's basic yearnings quite different from mine but similar threads surely exist for all. She looks at the big three with gusto. Eating, praying and loving. Don't miss.
Easy Chick Lit to get through and think about...
Not quite a fantasy trip, her travels, but an interesting yarn that I relished and truly enjoyed. Don't have to like you to appreciate a well written book or a fascinating journey. I found her take on life's basic yearnings quite different from mine but similar threads surely exist for all. She looks at the big three with gusto. Eating, praying and loving. Don't miss.
Easy Chick Lit to get through and think about...
Alina C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Author is completely self-absorbed. I couldn't make it through the first few chapters.
Jodeen E. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 38 more book reviews
HATED IT! What does she have to complain about! OMG - yeah I would really have to run away from my life just because my husband wanted to have a baby. Get over yourself!
Laura G. (marleycakes) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Can't say I was a huge fan. I think it was a little too self-centered and I had trouble empathizing with her. I mean, she got a book advance to go travel the world...seriously? Like some of the other reviewers, I did get wicked bored during the India chapters, they really were painful to read. It may be one of the whiniest parts of the book. But I toughed it out, unfortunately, not to be be impressed with the next section either. If you read it like a travel journal and block out all the "woe is me" stuff(which can be hard at times), it's not too bad. Maybe just not the right book for me.
Julie H. (minerva1221) -
I really tried to like this book but in the end, I failed miserably. The author came across to me as a poor-little-rich-girl on a self-absorbed sabbatical of supposed self-discovery. She leaves her marraige, on what seems like a whim, immediately gets involved with another man, constantly bashes her ex-husband, and pines over the end of the relationship with the other guy. It just felt really shallow to me.
She then proceeds to eat her way through Italy, see nothing of India but an ashram, and then barges in on a senile medicine man in Bali. Oh, and did I mention she got paid to do all of this? I think that is where my biggest issues with this book lie. Soul-searching on someone else's dime...where do I sign up?
While her character did grow in some ways, this book held very little depth or discovery for me. Richard from Texas was entertaining, as short as his appearance was.
She then proceeds to eat her way through Italy, see nothing of India but an ashram, and then barges in on a senile medicine man in Bali. Oh, and did I mention she got paid to do all of this? I think that is where my biggest issues with this book lie. Soul-searching on someone else's dime...where do I sign up?
While her character did grow in some ways, this book held very little depth or discovery for me. Richard from Texas was entertaining, as short as his appearance was.
Ann L. (annlihl) -
Funny, witty and entertaining, but there were times in the book where I thought it was too chatty which made certain sections boring to read. There were certain characters in the book where I felt were inspiring, and there were times where I felt the author was a bit dramatic too. I felt it was not the type of book where you "couldn't put it down". There were times I had to put it down and then decided about all I could take were ten pages a day before my eyes started glazing over. I rated it a 3 because she is a witty with her words, funny and entertaining with certain stories.
Tamara S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I love this book, I could never get rid of my copy. It is well worn, dog-eared and highlighted from all my readings. Every time I read it something else strikes me. It sets well with how women see themselves and how we try so hard to figure ourselves out. Oh how I wish for a year to travel and learn about myself though eating in Italy, praying in India and finding love in Indonesia!
Cathy W. (Firefly) -
This book was not as good as I wanted it to be. From the beginning, it bothered me that she already had the book deal before she went on the trip. Somehow, that cheapened the experiences. There were moments when I laughed out loud, but most of the time the writing was unexceptional. A lot of the time I felt that the author had a heightened sense of self-importance. This is not a book I will recommend for anyone to read.
Susan G. (onstagegirl) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 81 more book reviews
At first I was ready to put this book down. It was the epitomy of a pity party. Life sucked and going through a divorce is horrible. However, if you can get through the pity party, the rest of this novel is a great number of linked stories with insight of getting one's life back in order. I enjoyed the descriptions and adventures in Italy, India, and especially Bali. There are hidden voices of wisdom throughout.
Meredith G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
A wonderful and inspiring read !! Very funny and touching in equal parts.
Tamra G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Anyone looking for a new spiritual start or going through a spiritual change should read this book. I have read this book two times, once at the beginning of a shift in my life and then again after the initial change, but wanting to go further. I and other friends who have read it always use it as a reference book.
Elizabeth Gilbert is honest and a great writer. You feel her path and journey as she travels throughout the three countries. I would recommend this book to anyone who knows how to read.
Elizabeth Gilbert is honest and a great writer. You feel her path and journey as she travels throughout the three countries. I would recommend this book to anyone who knows how to read.
Kim P. (perky42474) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
I can not figure out hwat the fuss is about. I thought it was slow and hard to keep reading. Many times I wanted to just put it back on te shelf. The last chapter is the best part of the book, but does not make up for how boring the rest of it is.
Tammy B. (dreamer616) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 33 more book reviews
I really wanted to like this book. I got through the first part okay. Loved the stories of Italy and then it fell apart.
Beatriz K. (irishbeda) -
Wow, I actually read the reviews AFTER reading the book, and I'm glad I hadn't seen them or I may have never picked up the book. Yes, I agree that the author is at times whiny and self-absorbed, but then again that's what the book is about-- HER journey! Yes, I agree that we should all be so fortunate as to be able to take a year off and not work, and travel and "find ourselves"; this is WHY I read the book- to live vicariously through what other people can afford to do! I don't quite understand why people are slamming the book and the author about her own personal experience. I liked the book. It had its funny moments and times when I could relate to her feelings (anyone who's gone through divorce can probably relate); tender moments with the people she met (the medicine man and the baby ritual towards the end was heart-warming) and I liked reading about the places where she traveled. The book was okay; not great, but I didn't find it boring either. I've also heard that the movie (while movies never can quite compare to a book), is good for actually showing the beautiful places Liz traveled to and rich scenery. I do plan on watching the movie just to add to the experience of having read the book.
Terri M. (TerriM) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 103 more book reviews
Loved it! Wish I could take a year and spend it similarly.
Pam H. (PamelaH) -
This was a great read. The author, who is going through a rough time in her life, decides to take a year off and travel with specifics in mind. She travels to Italy to experience pleasure, India to learn devotion, and Indonesia to acquire a balance. I found myself empathising with Gilbert and also found many of her thoughts to be eerily similar to mine. Her brave travels were educating and wonderfully fun, as she has great wit. What a pleasure to read. I certainly didn't want this book to end and loved every moment from the great dishes in Italy to the sadness and anxiety of a difficult break-up. Everything comes together in Indonesia and the candid, sweet medicine man in Bali was just perfect. This is a must read!
Jaime (jaimevu) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 33 more book reviews
Audio is the way to go with this book! I KNEW I would not be able to sit down and read this book so I picked up a copy in audio format at my library. OH. MY. GOODNESS! It's one of the best books for me that I've ever listened to! Her self discovery took a lot courage. A lot of people complain that she goes on and on about herself. Well, the book is about her life. About the year long trip she took. I gave it 5 stars.
jax13 -
I couldn't read the entire thing, I just skimmed it. The author was just too annoying and self-absorbed. It was as if she thought we, the reader, would be so enthralled with the inanities of her pampered life that she could afford to write basically a diary of her life.
And a boring diary too. Her "problems" really aren't that problematic. Her solution of traveling the world and taking a huge amount of time off work, to cavort with assorted men, etc., is not realistic for most of us.
Her decision to divorce is not explained well; it seems as if she just got sick of her spouse. Selfish, complaining and whining, self-absorbed to the point of narcissism, and supremely confident that the reader will sympathize with her and her mundane writing....I just cannot believe everyone loved this book so much!
And a boring diary too. Her "problems" really aren't that problematic. Her solution of traveling the world and taking a huge amount of time off work, to cavort with assorted men, etc., is not realistic for most of us.
Her decision to divorce is not explained well; it seems as if she just got sick of her spouse. Selfish, complaining and whining, self-absorbed to the point of narcissism, and supremely confident that the reader will sympathize with her and her mundane writing....I just cannot believe everyone loved this book so much!
Ellen B. (fishercat) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
I have not finished the book but I am enjoying it. This book is not only about her external travels to Italy, India and Indonesia but about her internal journey to find peace in her own life. The author is recovering from a nasty divorce and major depression. A lot of the book is her effort to heal and to find a stronger connection to God. My favorite part is the part about India.
Ola L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book. The section in the Indian ashram could have been a little shorter and less self-elevating (at times it seems a little bit whiny or intended to make you see what a wonderfully good person she really is - really!). But overall, a good story and worth reading.
Stacie D. (evolady) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 16 more book reviews
It was wrote well but I didn't care for the story line. I felt that the character waffled back and forth in her spiritual life to the point that she lost all credibility and I could no longer take her serious. Was rather disappointed in the book.
LINDA M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
This was a wonderful book. I have all kinds of post its attached to it and it was delightful to read. Being a divorced woman I can identify with her writing and her quest to find happiness. It is a keeper and I won't be adding it to my booklist. I loved it! I even became a fan on facebook.
Brandon R. (thundergodraiden) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Never trust hype. She eats, she prays, and she loves. Gilbert's soul searching really had potential for something great, but half the time I can't help but roll my eyes at her hyperbolic writing. There is no doubt in my mind that most of this memoir is fictitious. Some of her lines, as a friend pointed out to me, are very profound and poetically beautiful. The story itself is ridiculous. When I've talked about this book with people I've found that they either love or hate it. So I guess there is nothing to do but read it and judge for yourself.
Emily H. (EHebner) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Well written very pithy and funny.
Nina V. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
This book is awesome and very inspiring and thought-provoking!
Because I had seen the movie version first, I purposely googled images of the real Elizabeth Gilbert rather than to have Julia Roberts face in my mind. It made the reading experience more real since it's a true story!
I highly recommend this book for spiritual seekers no matter your religous affiliation or lack thereof. It's also just a great story for those who love world travel as well since you learn a lot about three completely different cultures.
Because I had seen the movie version first, I purposely googled images of the real Elizabeth Gilbert rather than to have Julia Roberts face in my mind. It made the reading experience more real since it's a true story!
I highly recommend this book for spiritual seekers no matter your religous affiliation or lack thereof. It's also just a great story for those who love world travel as well since you learn a lot about three completely different cultures.
Bonnie S. (Bonnie) -
I have read some of the meanest reviews about Eat, Pray, Love. Just mean. Some focus on how could she possibly go to India and not be affected by the poverty, and not even mention it in her drivel?
Well, dang, I didn't want to read about poverty in India. I wanted to read about what it was like in an Ashram for someone. And that is what she wrote. She was criticized for eating so much in Italy. She was criticized for finding a new love in Indonesia. She was blasted for leaving her husband, after all, just why did she leave the poor fellow. I guess it wasn't enough that she said right in the intro that she was not going to humiliate him by giving us intimate details. And so what if she was miserable and the causes did not appear to be enough for some people. Every one has their own misery levels and goals.
But I just loved this book. Some stuff in the beginning reminded me, sadly, of me in another life.
Yes, I wish I could have gone to Italy and had my trip paid for by my publisher who was going to publish the book I would write...but that isn't what happened. Yes, I am envious. They paid for all of the trips. But that does not mean it is a bad book. I love her writing style, her sense of humor. Her honesty. Not easy, I imagine, to talk about masturbation in a personal memoir!
And, I really wanted her to end up with the guy she ends up with after all. Reviewers hated that she did. Bah on them.
This is a fun book!
Well, dang, I didn't want to read about poverty in India. I wanted to read about what it was like in an Ashram for someone. And that is what she wrote. She was criticized for eating so much in Italy. She was criticized for finding a new love in Indonesia. She was blasted for leaving her husband, after all, just why did she leave the poor fellow. I guess it wasn't enough that she said right in the intro that she was not going to humiliate him by giving us intimate details. And so what if she was miserable and the causes did not appear to be enough for some people. Every one has their own misery levels and goals.
But I just loved this book. Some stuff in the beginning reminded me, sadly, of me in another life.
Yes, I wish I could have gone to Italy and had my trip paid for by my publisher who was going to publish the book I would write...but that isn't what happened. Yes, I am envious. They paid for all of the trips. But that does not mean it is a bad book. I love her writing style, her sense of humor. Her honesty. Not easy, I imagine, to talk about masturbation in a personal memoir!
And, I really wanted her to end up with the guy she ends up with after all. Reviewers hated that she did. Bah on them.
This is a fun book!
Carrie H. (robotwife) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Loved, loved, loved it! I literally laughed out loud in many places. There were internal thoughts that she wrote about that could just as easily come from my head as they did from hers. Besides the good humor, I really enjoyed learning about different cultures and religions. This books was in no way preachy, and I totally appreciated that too. The spiritual stuff she writes about really could pertain to any religion. That was also very refreshing. This is probably one of my favorite reads recently. I saw the author on Oprah one afternoon, and she writes exactly as she portrayed herself on the show. I'm so glad I picked this one up.
Laura S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I identified with Liz Gilbert with every turn of the page. It was an incredibly honest and unguarded account of a difficult time in her life and how she came to terms with it. I found her story to be moving, hilarious, heartwarming, and above all - inspirational. This is a must read for every woman.
Karen L. (wish2read) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book. I am truly jealous of her stint in Italy. Not as fun as some other books I have read, but in many places gave me something to think about whether it be love, religion, or life in general. For me, it wasn't a "couldn't put it down" kind of a book, but it still was worth reading.
busymom2girls reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book very much. It made me want to visit India and take up meditation.
Julie V. (julesv251) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
This is another book I would never have gotten for myself. This story opened my eyes to so many parts of the world and the spirit Elizabeth Gilbert found for herself is truly amazing... Great Book and very well written
Isabelle E. (isaswede) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
I can't believe I even finished this book, but I had to to find out where the stuff was to redeem the horrid experience of reading this. I love how amazingly aware this woman is, even in her most ecstasy filled out-of-body experiences. I always am 100% aware of how I looked, felt, and what was happening around me when I have a mystic experience, or experience enlightenment.
Plueeese. Don't waste your time. If I could give this minus stars I would. It actually made me angry-- to which some would say, well, then the book did something for you. I guess I am not just up there with the author, aware enough to get it. Oh well.
Plueeese. Don't waste your time. If I could give this minus stars I would. It actually made me angry-- to which some would say, well, then the book did something for you. I guess I am not just up there with the author, aware enough to get it. Oh well.
Virginia C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
I adore this book!!!!! I so enjoyed reading this. I had just finished reading the horrible book, A Memory Keeper's Daughter, (only the 2nd book in my 64 years that I haven't finished entirely) when I picked up this one. It is delightful, funny and wise.
Carrie E. C. (cef424) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 67 more book reviews
Fantastic Book, can't wait to read the followup in 2009
Carmen K. (ckavali) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Incredible prose with a great sense of wit. The author describes her journey of self-discovery in a way that makes me want to take my own such journey. She leaves what seems to be her fairy-tale life, digs herself out of a debilitating depression, then sets out to find pleasure in Italy, devotion in India, and balance between the two in Bali. She's honest and real, and gives all of us 30-somethings the hope that we're really not too old to learn new tricks and to discover, at the end of it all, ourselves. Happiness is ours for the taking--we just have to make our happiness first.
Helen R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
AWESOME, AWESOME book. A beautifully written journey. Will give every reader some insight and perspective on how to stay balanced in life =)
Kristen S. (Snoopygirl) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
You feel like you travel to each respective country with Elizabeth--Italy: to eat, India: to pray and Indonesia: to love--The writer's style is breezy, yet intellectual. I read this shortly after my divorce and was able to connect to Elizabeth's feelings of loss and despair.
Barbara F. (blueheronmom) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 137 more book reviews
I never finished this book. It is divided into three sections: first section places the protagonist in Italy; second in India, and I never made it to section three, in Bali. In fact, I put this book down after section one.
Stacey A. (starfkr) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 53 more book reviews
I've heard a lot of criticism of "Eat, Pray, Love" and after reading it I've come to the conculsion that while some of the ciritism holds weight, the book is still very enjoyable. Elizabeth Gilbert is not everyones cup of tea - she kind of embodies the sterotype of the clueless elitist looking to escape a life that most people in the world can only dream of. Still, despite this I found her fairly likeable and authentic. The first and third portion of the book are most entertaining - I got a little bit bored in India. At the end of the day, I'd recommend it.
Peggy B. (pegasus) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
I am not sure what others expected of this book, but I had no expectations when I read it, and found it very delightful! I loved it so much that I gave my copy to a friend, who also loved it. Maybe you can only enjoy this story if you are in a certain place in your life, and I guess I'm there. I could see Liz's brokenness after her divorce as stage many women go through -- the pain of letting go of the past and making major life changes, the self-doubt and recrimination, the need to go away for a time, soothing our hurts by indulding in pasta, chocolate, alcohol, etc! And then she moves on to discover silence, discipline, service, and mediation, but she is so real about how challenging that part is, and how humorous it is to be imperfectly human! Finally, she starts to look outward again and to help others, she learns to let go and begin to love again, and who cannot relate to the fear and uncertainty of that! I took this to be a story of a woman who is trying to find her way through a diffficult passage in life with sometimes positive results, sometimes hurtful results, but a lot of insight and humor along the way. LOVED IT.
Shelly P. (meshell5968) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I really enjoyed this book. Not my usual cup of tea, it was a gift. But I pushed through the beginning (boring) and found myself enjoying her journey. It was interesting to me as I learned new things about other cultures (Italy, Indonesia, India). Good, quick, read.
Catherine L. (ritikitib) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 21 more book reviews
I got this book from a friend. I have to admit that I couldn't quite connect with the author, but I found it to be very interesting. She does something that is really wonderful at the end of the book. It's worth going through the book for just that. I hope you enjoy it.
Gia W. (giaw) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 58 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book about the authors quest for a better life and happiness more than I thought I would. It was very entertaining as Elizabeth Gilbert is quite funny and this book insightful. I look forward to her next book.
Maureen T. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
It was an interesting read. A bit slow in some places, and I had to question what I would learn from it. Being honest with oneselt is key and learning to love yourself and others will love you right back.
Ashlee T. (ashlee8) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
I heard about this book from Oprah, it sounded amazing! And I do agree that the 1st section (Italy) was good. Actually I loved it, reading & travel my 2 favorite things. But through India I've been bored out of my mind! I'm thinking about going back and skimming the last section to see if its worth reading. But I still gave it 4 stars for the Italy section- I just loved it. Makes me want to live/study abroad even more!!
Kendra W. (pipscweek) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 23 more book reviews
I loved the Eat section. The Pray and Love sections were really hard for me to finish.
Carole K. (carolen199) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I found this book a beautiful read. I am a spiritual type of person and start each day with a prayer so I could really relate to her journey. The people she met were interesting too. I highly recommend this story to those who are looking for a connection to another female searching for her place in life detailing love, weight and being a caring person. I agree that a soul searching angst type of read is not for everyone but I did identify with her personally and truly could not put this book down. A defining read for me.
Jeannette W. (jnetter) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I have to say I am quite surprised by all the negative reviews. This was my top read of 2008 by far. Once I started it I could not set it down. I feel the author is a very brave lady not only to travel for 12 months by herself but to write about her experiences openly and honestly. I would be happy to read more of her work.
Audrey J. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
What a terrific book!!!! I enjoyed every minute of it. This is such a soul-searching adventure.
Barbara C. (ladyjsmom) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
While the 'pray' section of the book is a bit more difficult to get into, the other two - 'eat' and 'love' are a lot of fun. A good read.
MELANIE P. (MJKBUYER) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 36 more book reviews
One of the most inspiring books that I have ever read.
Marianna R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I absolutely loved this book. The first part was quite adventurous..it slowed a bit in the middle (possibly b/c I'm not interested in going to India). Then it resulted in a full circle. Great book.
Helen P. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
I am a very picky reader, but i loved this book: gilbert writes in a poetic - but not flowery - manner and makes her journey (both the breakdowns and breakthroughs) make the reader long to go on a self-discovery journey of their own.
i highly recommend...and start saving money for your own voyage!
~heleninski
i highly recommend...and start saving money for your own voyage!
~heleninski
Amy D. (Iowan) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 173 more book reviews
The author is so likable that you will forgive her when the book is uneven and the concept of the "stories" as beads in a chain is a bit stretched. As you follow her journey through Italy, India and Indonesia you may yearn for a year away from reality to rediscover yourself!
Susan H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This is probably the best book that I read all last year. It is about a woman who has to get away to find herself, and I found it highly inspiring. Yes, she starts out a bit self absorbed, but not more so than anyone else that lives in America today. Her character undergoes huge personal change throughout the book, which is sad as well as humorous. I would most definitely recommend this book to anyone that has recently gone through a breakup or difficult time of transition in their life. I would especially recommend this book for women.
Laura H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
Gilbert's tale of regaining her lost soul. This non-fiction account of her disasterous divorce and how she became whole again. Well written, bitter sweet, very funny at times, this book does slow in the 2nd part when she is in India, but well worth reading otherwise.
Jane (mahbaar) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 111 more book reviews
A person's memoir, particularly about a personal faith journey, is something that will either connect with you or won't. For me, I really connected with the author and enjoyed her frank and open discussion of her travels and her facing her demons.
The opening third, in which she very openly discusses her depression and dealing (or in some cases NOT dealing) with it, is difficult to read, however. I suggest reading through the first third (Italy), and if you're not connecting with the author at that point to let it go. But I found myself intrigued by her journey and curious as to how India and Indonesia would shape her personal journey, and thoroughly enjoyed the last two thirds of the book. (I'll never forget Richard from Texas. What a hoot!)
Also, I think it's really critical that you read the introduction for this book. There is a reasoning behind the way she "parsed" this book, and I think it's important to know why she did that so that you're not distracted by the way the book is segmented.
The opening third, in which she very openly discusses her depression and dealing (or in some cases NOT dealing) with it, is difficult to read, however. I suggest reading through the first third (Italy), and if you're not connecting with the author at that point to let it go. But I found myself intrigued by her journey and curious as to how India and Indonesia would shape her personal journey, and thoroughly enjoyed the last two thirds of the book. (I'll never forget Richard from Texas. What a hoot!)
Also, I think it's really critical that you read the introduction for this book. There is a reasoning behind the way she "parsed" this book, and I think it's important to know why she did that so that you're not distracted by the way the book is segmented.
Nancy L. (materialgirl) -
Rates in the top 20% of books I've read. The title is pretty descriptive of the book. Its also about travel and self-discovery.
Christal H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 70 more book reviews
I really love Gilbert as a writer. She is funny and honest. Try her other books.
Jessica V. (viglicious) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
While I understand most reviewer's opinions about Elizabeth Gilbert's journey being "whiny" and "annoying" (because honestly there were some points in the book where I had to think to myself "oh come on!"), overall I found her spiritual journey awakening. With the bad, no matter how bad, you can always make good. Her delicious trip to Italy made me want to board a plane to Rome sans any thoughts of dieting. Her trip to India made me want to release all stresses and learn how to communicate spiritually in silence. I found her trip to beautiful Bali was lacking in my interest, but it seems like a gorgeous place to finally find yourself.
Sandra B. (sandybird) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I was sad when I was done reading it! I absolutely LOVED this book! I thought it was beautifully written with such rich and thought through descriptions. I could not put it down. Many parts I laughed out loud at. This is a book that I would recommend to friends who enjoy travel, meditation and introspection.
Karen S. (drmom1973) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My favorite section was eat, followed by love, and then pray. Although I didn't agree with a lot of the author's philosophy I appreciated her journey. It made me want to go back in time and travel, explore, etc. before having kids. This book definitely made me want to encourage my kids to explore all that life has to offer.
EJ V. (bookgal7) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 48 more book reviews
I can not even finish the book. Who cares about your internal struggle from having it all to finding the perfect love. If you have taken the time to live your life and be comfortable with transition and who you are this book will not speak to you. However, if you lived the life you thought you were suppose to or that your parents wanted you to live and you are still unsure who you are and what you want, maybe this book will inspire.
Kay C. (KaysCMAlbums) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 97 more book reviews
I didn't care for the content of the book. The author is an accomplished and descriptive writer, but this one wasn't for me. The title says, "one woman's search for everything", but I don't think she found anything that actually changed who she really was. The end of the book for me was so much like the beginning as far as relationships go. But, I'll give her this, she had fun doing it.
Julie R. (justaskjulie) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 33 more book reviews
This book is a year in the life of a woman trying to find herself. I have never had a book touch me so much. She spends 1 year traveling, 4 months in Italy enjoying pleasure (Eat), 4 months in India learning about her spirituality (Pray), and the final 4 months in Indonesia trying to learn how to balance pleasure and spirituality.
The part in India is the part that touched me so much. It is the first time I've encountered anyone approach/address religion in a way that I can truly wrap my head around and understand.
In addition to that chapter I can identify with her search in general. I've gone through the crappy divorce and the wondering who I really am after giving up so much to be with someone else. This book is a true gem, so much more than I would have expected.
The part in India is the part that touched me so much. It is the first time I've encountered anyone approach/address religion in a way that I can truly wrap my head around and understand.
In addition to that chapter I can identify with her search in general. I've gone through the crappy divorce and the wondering who I really am after giving up so much to be with someone else. This book is a true gem, so much more than I would have expected.
Amelia L. (browniee) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I had heard so much about this book that I couldn't wait to read it, after all, who can't relate to the connection between food and emotion (especially as a female!) but I lost interest about a third of the way through and found the authors droning on about her failed marriage in an otherwise life of priveledge a bit superficial and, okay, dare I say, whiny.
Jana B. (jbluehouse) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 24 more book reviews
I loved this book. My sister hated it and stopped reading it, but I thought it was a wonderful memoir of a period of seeking in the authors life. I, too, am a spiritual seeker and really understood her and her travels. What a special journey!
Jessica reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I really liked the first two thirds of this book! It made it SOOO worth the read. It was like having a conversation with a friend. I think it will appeal to female readers who are unmarried and childless, or vice versa and would like to live vicariously through someone who was brave enough to step back before she went down that road. It was a virtual vacation!
Patty U. - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
I loved this book.
Reina B. (maddiesmommy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 22 more book reviews
This was a great book. I was hooked from page 1. She writes like she is sitting on her couch with you and you are just to girlfriends having a chat. A great book. If you are looking to "find" yourself or even if you're not, it was a great read from start to finish.
Corinne M. (l1luv1) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This book changed my thinking about the way I live. This was a great one! I couldn't put it down! If you're looking for a book on spiritual change, this is it!
Allison D. (alleigh) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert is an unreadable exercise in self-pity and whining. Granted, it should probably have expected considering the general premise of the book, but Gilbert spent more time talking about her various neuroses than actually discussing her self-exploration. In addition, the occasional sympathy aroused during her various and numerous crying outbursts was lost every time she made an unnecessary political snipe. Is it necessary to reference her knowing how depressed she was because she couldn't even cry when the Democrats lost the 2004 Presidential election or explain that our country went to war just for fun? How is that relevant to journey for inner peace?
In the end, everyone's life has difficulties, and it is not clear why Gilbert's rollercoaster ride is any different from anyone else's ride. It doesn't offer insight for someone going through similar experiences, and more than anything, she just appears eccentric and neurotic. After the first 1/3 of the book, I lost my patience and stopped reading, so maybe my complaints don't apply to the whole book. However, since the process of getting to and the description of living a life of eating in Italy was less than enlightening, I just couldn't suffer through the rest of the book.
In the end, everyone's life has difficulties, and it is not clear why Gilbert's rollercoaster ride is any different from anyone else's ride. It doesn't offer insight for someone going through similar experiences, and more than anything, she just appears eccentric and neurotic. After the first 1/3 of the book, I lost my patience and stopped reading, so maybe my complaints don't apply to the whole book. However, since the process of getting to and the description of living a life of eating in Italy was less than enlightening, I just couldn't suffer through the rest of the book.
Melissa E. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 13 more book reviews
I loved this book. This seems to be a I love it or hate it book. Some people felt it was too winney, however, I feel that many of us think this way about ourselves. It is supposed to be about this womans life and I feel it was very true to her.
Andrea L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
This is a great read for anyone on a spiritual journey or anyone who needs a little nourishment for their soul.
I read this just after the death of my mother and it was like a sort of therapy. Although my sadness was far different from that of Elizabeth Gilbert, it was therapeutic to read about her journey.
I read this just after the death of my mother and it was like a sort of therapy. Although my sadness was far different from that of Elizabeth Gilbert, it was therapeutic to read about her journey.
Carole J. (spin) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 71 more book reviews
I enjoyed the book for its spiritual search and the writing about food and travel. Great combination.
Jennifer I. (funmommy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This was a good book to read. Short chapters. She has very descriptive writing style and makes you feel like you are there on the trips with her. It is an autobiography style book. I liked reading about the food she ate in Italy and her trips around the area. The prayer section in India was interesting, but a bit long I thought. I liked the love section in Indonesia where she finally finds love and is able to learn about herself and heal herself.
Judith B. (oldenglishteacher) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
This is one of the best books I have ever read! (I have read many!) Elizabeth captures the feelings of a great many women. The only thing is that I wished I could do what she did.
Heather G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
If you are in a place where you aren't sure what makes you happy anymore, this book will give you a glimpse into how to find yourself. I really appreciated that Gilbert puts it all out there. I think most women can relate to her story. I really enjoyed this book and could read it a million times and still walk away feeling inspired.
Nancee A. -
This is a fun account of the author's travels through Italy, India, and Indonesia, while searching for herself. The rich descriptions make you first hunger for Italian food, then strive to learn meditation. The people depicted are fun and interesting, and the author's humor makes the book fun, if not a bit off course in the final section.
Anita W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
By the time I read this book, I felt as if I had already "read" it from seeing the author on Oprah. However, the book is worth reading as one woman's inspirational story and journey.
Loretta R. (passthebook) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I found this interesting, but not fantastic. It was not a fast read and I didn't get inot it as much as I would have liked. Still, overall a good read.
Theresa L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I had many friends who recommended this book, so I finally got an audio copy. I have to say that I think it really added to it, since it was read by the author. It really put you in touch with her feelings and I could feel myself traveling with her. I have told everyone I know to read it!
Mandy M. (sophiedog) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 8 more book reviews
I really loved this book and didn't want it to end. This is truly a woman's journey, but we can all find bits of it to apply to our own lives. It starts off slow, setting the background for this woman's need to search for everything. I highly recommend this book.
Celeste B. (CelesteBroughton) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I LOVED this book. Great read. I highly recommend this.
Nancy P. (nanny1974) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Loved the journey with Elizabeth Gilbert from Italy to India to Indonesia. Felt I was right there with her on the journey.
Eileen F. (eileensariot) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
this book was very inspiring, for where i am in life, and how i don't want to wake up one day unhappy with the path i have chosen.
well written, and fast read.
well written, and fast read.
Bethany H. (writingsofemery) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This is a great book if you enjoy reading about traveling, spirituality, finding yourself, or just learning about other people's experiences. I found it to be very motivating and it made me think about and begin to evaluate my own life. I've read it once and I'm thinking about reading it again soon.
Liane M. (gypsysoul) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 49 more book reviews
An amazing read that I will reread throughout my lifetime. I buy this book for friends rather than lend it out.
Anita W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 27 more book reviews
One of the best memoirs I've read in a long while. The story is compelling, funny, and her life is filled with insight for each of us.
Catherine M. (catymacatl) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
I loved this book. She has a wonderful, simple, funny writing style and is very relatable. I have spent significant time in Italy and India, so it was a wonderful way for me to revisit those places. thank you Elizabeth!
Cherie H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Wonderful descriptions of the places where she travelled. What a wonderful opportunity it would be to take a year to find yourself again.
Samantha T. (dangerlucy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
Like others, I found myself bored halfway through India. I skimmed a lot of it. I enjoyed some of it, but mostly it was long and tedious to read. Still wondering why this is such a popular book.
Katlyn M. (katlyn22) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I really loved this book. Reading about her struggle with her divorce and yearning to become closer to God is very inspiring. It is so encouraging and a very real book. I am very in love with her writing!
Trish J. (tjacobs224) - , reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
Loved it! A thought provoking book about a woman trying to "find herself" after failed relationships.
Melissa B. (melissaab) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 38 more book reviews
Although I tried not to listen to all of the hype that surrounds this book -- it was near impossible. I did not want my expectations to exceed the reality of the book. Although I thought the book was okay. Anything more than that would be a stretch. Stretches of the book were boring, from a lack of nothing happening. Often the text in these sections rambled on. I fell asleep several times trying to get through the middle of the book. I do not like giving up on books, and forced myself to read to the end. But I got tired of listening to her whine halfway through India.
Kayana L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
i really enjoyed the book. it has its moments
Kinyorda S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 65 more book reviews
There are deep moments in this book but it often takes the author several pages of self pity and whining to get to those a-ha moments. Worth reading but not the life changing book it is held up to be. The movie does a good job of skipping through the whining and focusing on the life changing parts.
Allison B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I devour books. I can't get enough of them. My library card has to be replaced every year because I wear it out, and book store clerks know me by first name. I'll read just about anything in print. This is only the second book I had to force myself to read to the end (the last one was read in 1986 and it took me 6 months to finish).
After 5 chapters of reading about her self-indulgent whining of the "woe is me" attitude, it was too easy to put it down. It took me 2 months to finish the book.
When I finally read the last word of the last page, it was clear that Elizabeth was so into herself that she totally missed out on the simple things that life gives you. She never once appreciated the kindness of strangers who asked for nothing in return, a beautiful day, the art of dining, or how the littlest thing, or act, can make a world of difference. Elizabeth couldn't find herself because she wasn't even trying to look. It seemed all she wanted was to find out what others could do for her and what she could get out of them.
TOTAL disappointment. Not even worth posting for trade. Honest.
After 5 chapters of reading about her self-indulgent whining of the "woe is me" attitude, it was too easy to put it down. It took me 2 months to finish the book.
When I finally read the last word of the last page, it was clear that Elizabeth was so into herself that she totally missed out on the simple things that life gives you. She never once appreciated the kindness of strangers who asked for nothing in return, a beautiful day, the art of dining, or how the littlest thing, or act, can make a world of difference. Elizabeth couldn't find herself because she wasn't even trying to look. It seemed all she wanted was to find out what others could do for her and what she could get out of them.
TOTAL disappointment. Not even worth posting for trade. Honest.
Lynn G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This book is so good!
Kerri M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Gilbert has a good sense of humor - wish it came out more in the book. At times, for me it read slow, especially through Indonesia. Not a bad read, but I generally look for something that's a little more engaging.
Christina P. (pear2apple) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 22 more book reviews
Well I loved this book. I'll need to reread it and give better feedback, but in short it sorta changed my life. I began to research meditation and look into a slower pace of life. I'm still a work in progress, but this book started a new outlook on my life that I am really enjoying.
I do know however that the movie was quite horrible. I never watched it, my friend did and she loved the book as well, but she said the movie was very slow and Julia Roberts didn't make a good main character, wasn't anything like Elizabeth. So that is a disappointment, but I tend to like my Mind's version of characters better than the movie character anyway.
I do know however that the movie was quite horrible. I never watched it, my friend did and she loved the book as well, but she said the movie was very slow and Julia Roberts didn't make a good main character, wasn't anything like Elizabeth. So that is a disappointment, but I tend to like my Mind's version of characters better than the movie character anyway.
Amy C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
This is a great story of self discovery and self acceptance. I recommend it for all women in search of something but who haven't decided what. It may not help you find what you are looking for, but it will help you feel confident and comfortable in you desire for something more.
Cathy G. (cplizza) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
who as a woman has not been in this position? Bravo for Elizabeth Gilbert for putting all of these emotions out there for the whole world to read....
Leslie H. (lester0729) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
I gave up reading this book. The tone was too much of a whining divorce' for my taste. I quit reading and went to see the movie instead because I like Javier Bardem!
leslie
leslie
Andrea R. (whatarush) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
This was a well written book, however I saw the movie before reading. Unlike most movie/book relationships the movie was pretty accurate. I was a little bored with it because I knew what was going to happen next. Had I read the book first I think that I would have enjoyed it more.
Nancy F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
What was all the fuss about? While the book was a quick read, the only other thing I can say to recommend it was that the writing is good, compared with other books that have sold so well of late. Worthwhile for the beach.
Sharon D. (booklit) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 473 more book reviews
A truly enjoyable read. Accomplished writer. a must read.
Shannon B. (mzzbarnes) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 20 more book reviews
I truly did enjoy this book BUT I did skim/snooze through parts. Just had some unnecessary rambling with excessive descriptions. Would still recommend to my female reading friends. Want to see the movie but have yet to find.
Shaleece K. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Gilbert is a brilliant writer! She has the ability to be witty, charming, self-revealing, insightful, and descriptive. She has the knack to really put into words those things that seem beyond expression-emotions and spiritual experiences. While I'm not a believer in Yogic meditation, gurus, and the such, I did find that my own belief system was enriched by realizing that we (all people) do approach pleasure, happiness, devotion, and peace like a project or a job. If we plan it all out and work really hard at it, it will come to us. When in fact, the harder we try the further it gets away from us. Much like Gilbert, I struggle in the silence of letting God speak instead filling the air with my endless prattle. "Be still and know that I am God," is probably the most simple and most difficult truth to embrace.
Laura P. (hemmputnam) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 1159 more book reviews
I loved the intimate, chatty tone of this book about the author's travels and search for peace and meaning in her life. I found myself copying passages down in a notebook, something I haven't done since college. Her honesty was remarkably brave, and I love her explanation of the importance of contentment. It can be "a generous gift to the world" because when you are content, "you are free to serve and enjoy other people."
Traci R. (traciraymer) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This was very hard for me to get through. It did get better towards the end.
Karin J. (gringa76) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 48 more book reviews
This book makes me want to travel the world discovering myself too! Anyone who loves to travel or is into spiritual discovery would love this book!
I have to admit, the book dragged in some areas, but most of the book was highly engaging. I would definitely recommend this book!
I have to admit, the book dragged in some areas, but most of the book was highly engaging. I would definitely recommend this book!
Denise L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 55 more book reviews
Fun & interesting to read! Finished it while reading a few other books, now I'm going to rent the movie!!! I am happy for the author & how things turned out!
Jan H. (Benue183) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I liked this book very much. I was not shocked to hear that Julia Roberts is planning to play the lead in the movie based on this book, and I plan to go and see it.
I really liked the first 2 sections of the book, and found the final installment to be just okay. I do like the way it was written: sort of like a diary, as it made it easy to read bits and pieces of it even if you didn't have alot of time.
I really liked the first 2 sections of the book, and found the final installment to be just okay. I do like the way it was written: sort of like a diary, as it made it easy to read bits and pieces of it even if you didn't have alot of time.
Jessica S. (jessyalice) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
Really only enjoyed the "eat" part
Martine R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
LOVE this book. So much that I find myself highlighting parts of it. I will re read often.
Amber W. (balboaroc) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I have seen the movie many times over and was eager to read the book. I did enjoy the book and catching the differences between the book. I would recommend this as a nice read. I did not find it to be a book I couldn't put down but it did keep my interest till the end.
Ruth T. (ruthbeckersc) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
Read the book, don't watch the movie. Reading this book was, at times, like reading about my own life. I love Elizabeth Gilbert's style of writing, its like being a conversation with a dear friend and hearing her stories in person. This book is a must for any spiritual seeker to help the person learn how to enjoy life's pleasures, discover true devotion, and learn how to balance between the world of the spiritual and the world of the material. Read it, you'll love it.
Michelle D. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Interesting read about a woman's spiritual and physical journey of understanding and transforming herself.
Bethany P. (badbadkitty) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 80 more book reviews
I didn't expect to like this book very much, because of all the hype. BUT, I loved parts of it and I enjoyed the whole thing. The Italy section was my favorite, and India was interesting, although Indonesia dragged for me a bit. I found that although Ms. Gilbert pontificated a lot, I did identify with how she described loss (especially divorce). Overall it was well-written (although she could have used a stronger editor), and engaging. But the brilliant part is that every few pages, there would be a line or a phrase that was so true, that it became a revelation, and became meaningful to me. Those were the parts I loved.
Diane H. (auntbeebooks) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 31 more book reviews
I chose to read this book because of its popularity, but I was not impressed. The story dragged on and I did not find anything in this book to which I could relate.
Sandra R. (tigerwren) -
I have never read so little of a book before I gave up. After 30 pages, 4 straight pages going on about the problems with her boyfriend, I gave up. I have never read a more self absorbed character and usually I like drama but this was to much.
Amanda P. (nanjo) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 48 more book reviews
This is an incredible story of a woman's journey to Italy, India, and Indoesia and her spirtual journey associated with it. It made me laugh, cry and sit in awe. Gilberrt has a beautiful voice and the reader feels as though they are sitting next to the woman, sharing a cup of coffee and discussing her trip.
However, contrary to what the preview for the movie has implied (I have not yet watched it) this book is not a fluffy chick flick. It is a deep spiritual exploration. The reader must have an open mind and heart or may not be able to enjoy the story.
However, contrary to what the preview for the movie has implied (I have not yet watched it) this book is not a fluffy chick flick. It is a deep spiritual exploration. The reader must have an open mind and heart or may not be able to enjoy the story.
Carol H. (thereadercarol) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
I didn't give it much of a chance. I read about 30-40 pages and thought the woman sounded like a whiney baby. Personally, I'm not into guru stuff either, and that did turn me off.
Hopefully, someone will really get the good of it, as I put it right back on the paperbackswap website yesterday :)
Hopefully, someone will really get the good of it, as I put it right back on the paperbackswap website yesterday :)
John O. (buzzby) -
It would seem that an amazing number of people do not like this book.
sunshinems -
I enjoyed most of this book. I think that the movie portrays her as rather shallow and self-indulged, but in reading the book I could truly understand her angst when she realized that her life was just not worth living the way she had until that moment. Depression is not a pretty place, and she's not afraid of showing that.
There is a depth to her self-discovery in the first part of the book that is not as evident toward the latter part but, nevertheless, it is an interesting journey of self-discovery, of letting go of the safe, expected path and letting go of fear.
It is thought provoking rather than entertaining.
There is a depth to her self-discovery in the first part of the book that is not as evident toward the latter part but, nevertheless, it is an interesting journey of self-discovery, of letting go of the safe, expected path and letting go of fear.
It is thought provoking rather than entertaining.
Cynthia W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Yes, I read the whole thing. Before I saw the movie. And there were some things I wish they'd kept in the movie, which of course was watered down for the masses.
Not a bad read at all.
Not a bad read at all.
Nancy F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
A very good beach read -- but not much more.
Susan B. (bruners) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 8 more book reviews
Took me a while to get through this, as this was my latest "filler" book. Not as gripping as some previous biographies I've read, but definitely worth the investment of time and the spiritual blessing you'll get from the triune of perspectives from her three destinations.
Kim S. (mamapeach417) -
Not as good as I was led to believe. There are parts that were very insightful. However, I sometimes found myself bored & forcing myself to finish reading the book.
Serafina B. (serafina) -
Too much hype
Shelly B. (Shivers) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 30 more book reviews
LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! a great read that flowed like fiction. i would recommend it over and over again
JENNIFER C. (jenferbooks) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 17 more book reviews
Good read.
Jennifer S. (cinderella317) -
so overrated! i bet in this instance the movie will be better than the book!
Janine H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
Very difficult read.
Alison P. (percivaa) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This book is amazing. It's empowering without being a "self help" book. Elizabeth Gilbert opens herself up to be vulnerable to her readers, but also shows a great strength. She is hilarious and insightful, so it makes the book entertaining and leaves you feeling like you might just be a better person for having read it.
Emily H. (depplover28) -
I absolutley loved this book. I had seen the movie a few times before and loved that also. I found the movie was very true to the book, and I ended up liking the book more since it gave so many more details (as usual). I really liked how Gilbert gave so much background information about each country she traveled to. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone!
Alex L. (righhht) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Started a little dry but I heard so many good things about this book so I pressed on and really enjoyed it a lot! Very spiritual and made me think about different religions.
ELIZABETH J. (elizabethjean4) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
A little hard to get into at first but very insightful & deep. The author illustrates very well exactly what she's going through & also sheds a lot of light on her travels, the history of these places & understanding of different cultures.
Mary Jo M. (maryjo82226) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
Loved this book. I so related to Liz in many aspects. I understand the heartache of divorce and the need to find myself. I just wish I had the time and money to do it the way Liz did! (Italy is my dream country!) Except for our religious views, I found a lot in common with Liz and would definitely recommend this book.
Cindy B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
It was a great movie and a good book.
Donna K. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Author was a bit whiny at times, but she pulled herself together. I really enjoyed reading this book for the adventure. Just the fact that she was able to take the time to get away and live the experience.
Kimberly M. (kimber88) -
I really enjoyed this book much more than the movie. I felt it went into much more of the spiritual side of the main character. It gave me a closer look at her journey to find not only herself, but also where she is at in her walk with God as well as where she wants to be.
Alison L. (aliley75) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
After hearing some many individuals talk about the movie and the book I decided that I needed to read it. While I understand that this is a reflection of herself and a small memoir, I felt that the author showed that she was very whiney and selfish. It is not the self reflection that I thought I would see. There were several times where I found myself skipping over paragraphs, not to hurry through the book, but because I was bored with the book.
Amelia H. (ameliah) -
Amazing, magical, well written, inspirational! I loved this book so much I sent one to a friend and told everyone I knew about it. Then I read it again. If you like travel, food and spirituality this is a must read.
MICHELE R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
I loved this book and read it in 24 hours. The movie is by no means an accurate depiction of the book or Gilbert's reported experiences. It's uplifting and a great read.
Cheryl C. (moondance120) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 422 more book reviews
I must say that I was expecting quite a bit from this book and was sorely disappointed when it did not deliver. I found myself skimming through the pages and did not quite get what everyone found so intriguing about this book. Rather let down. 1.5 stars
Holly G. (holz-graves) -
This book has all the good drama of a novel with the believability (read: honesty) of a memoir. It doesn't 100% live up to the hype, but it comes awfully close.
Amy D. (amymarine) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
This was a good book, though I found the author (protagonist) a bit selfish. Her description of Italy brought back a lot of memories from my travels there.
Laurel W. (StrawberryOES) -
Wonderful book. Full of eye-opening revelations about one's life and struggles. Wish I had read it 40 years ago (if it had been written then). It reminded me a bit about my own life, and makes you take another look, to see if something else needs to be changed.
Shannon M. (confuzzledbooks) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 487 more book reviews
These are the true events of love lost/gained, inner peace found and food enjoyed (not necessarily in that order) by author Elizabeth Gilbert.
My favorite parts were the time spent at the Buddhist temple and the scenes with her friends while she collected money to buy a new home/work space. The least interesting was the mentioning of the different romances in her life. I felt like that was the back story, and the main thing was that she learned to be herself.
I enjoyed much of this book, even though the author and I have different thoughts on life and love. In fact, I did not realize until I read this book what I thought of certain things.
My favorite parts were the time spent at the Buddhist temple and the scenes with her friends while she collected money to buy a new home/work space. The least interesting was the mentioning of the different romances in her life. I felt like that was the back story, and the main thing was that she learned to be herself.
I enjoyed much of this book, even though the author and I have different thoughts on life and love. In fact, I did not realize until I read this book what I thought of certain things.
Shannon W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 52 more book reviews
Not for me. I could not get into this book.
Wendy P. (wpoohd) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 34 more book reviews
I fully expected to think this book was okay but not great, I mean how much in common could I have with a woman who had the luxury of taking of a year off and the ability to travel to three separate countries during that time? However her self-honesty is so completely compelling you can't help but empathize with her struggles. I very enjoyable read that encourages self examination.
Amanda L. (insatiablewanderlust) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I don't believe that I've ever written a book review but I feel the need to defend this book. All the reviews I've read state that the author is a spoiled, bratty women who had two beautiful men that loved her and all she wanted was to run away and this makes her selfish. I disagree. Someone once told me that "until you love yourself, no one else can love you". Ok, so a fortune cookie told me that. But I do believe that until you love yourself, you can't fully love someone else. Liz got married and tried to start a family because that is what society expected of her. However, that's not who she was and felt miserable but wanted to conform to society. Everyday that Liz continued in this facade, she continued to die a little more inside. Leaving her husband was not selfish, she was setting him free. She knew that she couldn't love him like he deserved and set him free. She then spent a year learning to love herself. Only after learning to love herself, could she then love someone else. I don't think that the author is spoiled or selfish. I think she is brave for leaving a marriage that she knew wasn't complete (even if it was her fault), for letting her husband free to find someone that could love and care for him, for having the courage to break away from the expected and learn to love herself. If I had it to do over again, I would absolutely buy and read this book.
Marsha M. (marsha1) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 27 more book reviews
Very interesting--good book.
Nicole H. (mom2birds) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I have already lent the book to a couple people. I really liked the book and felt like Elizabeth gave such great detail I felt like I was there.
Jenny J. (JENJEN121187) -
I loved this book! It's one of those motivational books that make you look at your life and think, "Yeah... maybe I do have the ability to be that happy." I now have a few more places I'd like to travel to also. I literally laughed out loud a number of times to some of the things that were said. She is an awesome author, and I have already ordered her other books she's written.
Jessica S. (jessyalice) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
The first part of the book I would encourage anyone to read. It quickly sucked me in. The way the author describes Italy and her culinary journey made my mouth water. The book, however goes from exciting to boring and redundant fast. I will see the movie, as I think some of the actions are better portrayed on film (hopefully).
Martha S. (forever29) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Very enlightening and entertaining story. Makes a person think about leaving the everyday grind to search out a better meaning in life.
Sandra H. (pandareads) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 33 more book reviews
I hate giving up on books so as a result it took me three months to force myself to finish this one. The first section was pretty good, the second one made me want to throttle Elizabeth Gilbert, and the third section was only "okay." I was so relieved to finish this book and mail it off for a credit. It only gets one star from me. It must be nice for Ms. Gilbert to have the time and money to take a year off to "find herself."
Neslie T. (neslietumulac) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I thought the author was honest about her emotions and thoughts during her experiences of divorce, separation and travel. I learned a few things I didn't know and I'm glad I read the book. Although I've heard others complain about her "whining," I would just say that maybe those readers were not patient enough with the book. However, I will say that I liked most of the book except for the ending which was a little cliche.
Jillian D. (jillybean7682) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 19 more book reviews
Ever feel that need to find your happy, your spirit, your heart? This book shows the journey in a very enlightening way! As Liz would say, "Are you tired of waking up in the morning and remembering every single thing you ate the day before?" There are many things we experience in life, sometimes just floating by, doing what is expected and required. There are those moments, when we suddenly realize it isn't who we are suppose to be. But who are we suppose to be?
Liz takes this incredible journey to discover her, well, self. Something she's lost with age and in the bustle of the everyday life. Sometimes people don't even realize they've become something that was empty because it's all they've ever known. "Many people spend their lives together, miserable, but happy not to be apart."
Take this analogy. Things arn't always what they seem. What once was a beautiful ancient city, has over the centuries, crumbled and melted. Somehow, a small part of that place that was once beautiful, still remains. . . broken. Like a "wound." Why wasn't that piece of the city absorbed into the rest? Because change is difficult. "We all want things to stay the same...Ruin is a gift. Ruin is the road to transformation."
Liz takes this journey. Physical and mental. She goes to Italy, India, and Bali. She transforms herself from something broken to a new whole person. I haven't seen the movie, yet, but if it's as good as the book, it will be . . . a spiritual awakening.
What really touched me was the part about forgiveness and regret. Waiting for someone else to forgive you is a waste of time. We need to forgive ourselves to continue with our lives. And usually, the hardest part of life is moving on to find happiness through forgiveness.
Ultimately, this book is a journey from within. You and I don't necessarily need the big, long trip to discover ourselves. We just need to be able to sit and quietly listen. God will be there. For he is watching us, as us.
Take this quote: "Sometimes losing balance for love, is part of living a balanced life."
Be prepared for a long story. Many people have criticized this book for being a book all about Liz. Selfish Liz searching for herself. Well it is! All about Liz! But take her story, and make it yours. Give this book some love because it is so worth it!
Liz takes this incredible journey to discover her, well, self. Something she's lost with age and in the bustle of the everyday life. Sometimes people don't even realize they've become something that was empty because it's all they've ever known. "Many people spend their lives together, miserable, but happy not to be apart."
Take this analogy. Things arn't always what they seem. What once was a beautiful ancient city, has over the centuries, crumbled and melted. Somehow, a small part of that place that was once beautiful, still remains. . . broken. Like a "wound." Why wasn't that piece of the city absorbed into the rest? Because change is difficult. "We all want things to stay the same...Ruin is a gift. Ruin is the road to transformation."
Liz takes this journey. Physical and mental. She goes to Italy, India, and Bali. She transforms herself from something broken to a new whole person. I haven't seen the movie, yet, but if it's as good as the book, it will be . . . a spiritual awakening.
What really touched me was the part about forgiveness and regret. Waiting for someone else to forgive you is a waste of time. We need to forgive ourselves to continue with our lives. And usually, the hardest part of life is moving on to find happiness through forgiveness.
Ultimately, this book is a journey from within. You and I don't necessarily need the big, long trip to discover ourselves. We just need to be able to sit and quietly listen. God will be there. For he is watching us, as us.
Take this quote: "Sometimes losing balance for love, is part of living a balanced life."
Be prepared for a long story. Many people have criticized this book for being a book all about Liz. Selfish Liz searching for herself. Well it is! All about Liz! But take her story, and make it yours. Give this book some love because it is so worth it!
Jessica M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Elizabeth Gilbert took me on her journey with her in this book , I really didnt want to stop reading it = ) . 5 STARS !!!
Cara (cheddy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 29 more book reviews
Elizabeth Gilbert is a woman on a mission of self-discovery. Few women can identify with the thirty-one year old who had a husband, country home and successful career as a NY writer. Fewer still can identify with the ability to take nine months off to discover oneself following a wrenching divorce. In a funny travel journal, Gilbert writes of her experiences traveling through Italy, India and Indonesia. It's her thoughtful insight and witty prose that make this a book worth reading.
CeLeste M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
This is one of the best books I have read in recent years. There is so much wisdom and "food" for thought encased within its pages.
mimibottoms reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 58 more book reviews
I like this book so much I'm going to keep it on my bookshelf rather than trade it! The title pretty much tells you about it... Just to add a little bit of my opinion; I think you get to see a woman grow from being self-centered and aimlessly searching to knowing herself well enough to just be! The idea of "this too shall pass"... it applies to both sadness and happiness. The book really isn't meant to help you or give you tips, but if you feel at all like you are searching and aimless in life, you will identify with some of her thoughts and experiences. Valuable just for that reason.
TAMMIE T. (osupoke) -
I liked this book. I loved all the details of other countries. Very interesting!
Linda D. (lindabird44) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 38 more book reviews
Enjoyed this book
Heather E. (herwine75) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 116 more book reviews
This was a very interesting book. She went on a great journey that very few people get to experience.
Mbio J. (ecologyscout) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I was really skeptical of this book after all the hype, both good and bad, that it received. And I don't tend to like books that are heavily weighed down by romantic angst, which I thought might play a huge role in this book. However, I finally read it and loved it. I do tend to like travel writing and memoirs anyway, and I recently got divorced, so perhaps those three things combined laid the necessary groundwork for someone to really get a lot out of this book. One more thing -- this book has even inspired me to start meditating regularly! (something I never thought I'd do).
I'm looking forward to reading Committed, the sequel.
I'm looking forward to reading Committed, the sequel.
Kelly P. (kellyreads) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
Love this book! It's border-line self-help but still a well written account. The author really makes her journey come alive.
Cassandra G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This is not the kind of book i would usually pick up and read, but instead I started reading only beause I was desperate to kill time.. I found myslef not being able to put it down! It was so easily readable and enjoyable!
Rachel D. (rfdudley) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 75 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book and want to read others by this author.
Annette W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 35 more book reviews
inspiring
Angela B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 82 more book reviews
I found this book hard to put down. I laughed and could relate a lot to the main character, Liz. It is light-hearted and yet discusses serious questions of self discovery and discovery of the divine.
Noel G. (noelcg) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I read this book for my book club a few months ago. I can't remember details now and I have to say many of the other women weren't crazy about it, but I liked it very much. I liked Elizabeth Gilbert's writing style, nice easy-flowing. The book picked up pace once she got over her long depression in the beginning. I enjoyed her voyage through Italy most. She is very descriptive and I felt like I was actually there (though I've never been) and that trip to Naples made me hungry! I was also very moved by her trip to the Ashram in India. The peace she experienced there was meaningful and healing. And the eventual conclusion in Bali was fun and also very moving, and of course that's where the love story happens. I felt the most captivating thing about the book were the connections she made with the people she met along her journey; I loved everyone she came across and you could feel she did, too.
Caroline L. -
This is the only Elizabeth Gilbert book I've ever read, and her down-to-earth writing style made me want to read everything else she's written. Gilbert seats you at her side as she narrates her descent into depression and the miraculous journey she undertook to rediscover herself. I couldn't put this book down--I kept turning pages late at night to find out what she was going to do next. The book is filled with exciting twists and details her spiritual and emotional development during her year abroad.
Alison Q. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
Excellent read! Insightful, enjoyable
Liz S. (lizs) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book and am a bit envious that she got to take a year to travel! However, by her time in Bali the story about her romance was a bit predictable. other than that, well written and engaging.
Nicole F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Wonderful book. I loved it.
Beth H. (kmjhmom) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
quite boring.
Beth Anne L. (TysMommy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I could NOT put this book down! Until I got about halfway through, that is. If you're not avidly interested in eastern religions and/or meditation, the middle section of this boko will drag a bit for you, but the book is well-worth the read.
Leah G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
This is a great anytime read. I would describe the book as interesting, inspirational, emotional and adventourous. I didn't want to put it down!
Cindy B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This book is a LOT of fun, I recommend to anyone with a yen to travel.
Lisa H. (Zeldah) -
This book had some parts that dragged, some chapters were a little disorienting, but overall I found it engrossing. So much was presented about the culture of that part of the world that I found myself grateful with every turn of the page to be an American.
Theresa A. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
I felt inspired by this book. Humorous and Heart-breakingly Serious...
Anne Marie D. (daileyam) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
liked it
Shanan O. (MomReadsALot) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 30 more book reviews
Love the tone of this book - light and conversational, yet dealing with such important and weighty issues. Fun and inspiring.
Lynn M. (AwesomeAlly) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This is truly one of the best books I have ever read-- hands down. I am not a reader of "travelogues" and this is definitely not in that genre. The writer shares her feelings throughout, and the reader understands her journey of healing from a painful divorce, rooting for her all the way. In the end, she unexpectedly finds love (hooray!). The characters, events, ups and downs of customs and cultures on the other side of the world, together with the writer's witty and very funny writing style made this a book I could not put down.
Susan R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
I'm in the middle of it and am enjoying it - but I've put it down and don't feel the overwhelming desire to pick it back up. May feel different when I finish
Anita C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 32 more book reviews
Wonderful book! Well-written, insightful, directive. Every American woman should read it.
Kathryn G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
an enjoyable book, thought-provoking but not as heavy as I'd imagined.
Janet R. (rusigrl) -
This book is informative, uplifting, and also an easy read. Gilbert keeps the reader engaged. I can almost picture myself in the meditation cave!
Nancy S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
Great memoir, a fun read. I really enjoyed hearing her descriptions of all of the places she traveled to and how they effected her.
Candice A. (candycane) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
I absolutely loved this book. It's a beautiful spiritual journey, rich with humor and vivid descriptions. There were a few descriptions of her "divorce journey" that were alittle long and tedious, but overall the book, for me, was captivating.
Jamie B. (jburr) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I loved this open and inspiring story.
Theresa V. (Trese) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 34 more book reviews
I really liked the story line and the inner feelings that she shared with her audience. There were a couple of spots where you may drift into boredom because of the details of the experience but just hang in there - it all make sense in the end. Bravo for her and the many others out there that are seeking to find the true self.
Michelle M. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
This book takes you into one woamsn amazing journey through self discovery after a huge life altering shift after her life changes as she knows it. I would recommed this book to everyone as her journey to self discovery through an amazingly painful process is something many can relate to. but to see her journey through her own experiences is amazing!
Jari W. (Jari) -
eat, pray, love is the story of Liz and the year she takes to discover herself. She spends basically 4 months each in Italy, for pleasure; in India, for for spirituality; and Indonesia/Bali, for , for, . . . she isn't sure What for!
Liz has just come out of a painful divorce, instigated by her and she gives him everything, and she wants this time to recover. She eats and learns Italian and eats and eats in Italy, enjoying herself. She does think quite a bit about sex while there, even though she has decided to be celibate this year. She then travels to India and spends the time at her Guru's ashram. She learns different things about meditation and herself, and thinks more and more about sex. She moves on to Bali, and discovers balance, and thinks about sex. She does find love, a lover, in Bali, and they go home together.
ALthough there are interesting observations about the countries and peoples and cultures, there is way too much sex in this book. I found it hard to finish the book, as I do not like to read about other people's, or my!, sex experiences. The book Is well written, and seems to be very popular.
Liz has just come out of a painful divorce, instigated by her and she gives him everything, and she wants this time to recover. She eats and learns Italian and eats and eats in Italy, enjoying herself. She does think quite a bit about sex while there, even though she has decided to be celibate this year. She then travels to India and spends the time at her Guru's ashram. She learns different things about meditation and herself, and thinks more and more about sex. She moves on to Bali, and discovers balance, and thinks about sex. She does find love, a lover, in Bali, and they go home together.
ALthough there are interesting observations about the countries and peoples and cultures, there is way too much sex in this book. I found it hard to finish the book, as I do not like to read about other people's, or my!, sex experiences. The book Is well written, and seems to be very popular.
Amanda P. (Manda5237) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I absolutely loved this book!!!
Jennifer P. (pettey212) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I think you have to "get" this book to enjoy it. I liked it, but didn't love it. I enjoyed the travel aspect, and the extreme courage it must have taken just to venture to these places alone. This is something I have always been itching to do. But I did not relate to her relationship problems nor the spiritual journey and her descriptions of it. Alot of this area, I just skipped over. Maybe I am just not deep enough. I even put the book down for a few months, and just recently picked it up again and started over. I'm glad that I did!
Demetrius B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Thoroughly enjoyed this!!
Amanda J. (blackhawkh109) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 15 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book, and I think I enjoyed it because I didn't expect it to be more than it was. It's not a travel book, it's not a self-help book, it's not even a book about "this is what I did, you should do it too!" This is a story about one woman who was unhappy with her life and, instead of choosing a path that many Americans do (i.e. load up on antidepressants or turn to alcohol, drugs, or sex), she chose to get to the bottom of her problem and learn who she was and change what she didn't like. She exposes a lot of her flaws, but never did I get the sense that she wanted pity, but rather that she was willing to emotionally expose herself to her readers to show that she had a lot of work to do to become a better person. I found her as a woman who had defined herself based on other people that she had lost touch with her true identity and wanted that part of herself back, rather than a self-righteous whiny girl who wanted everyone to feel sorry for her.
This is not a book to read if you want to learn how to better your life or learn all the hot-spots to visit when traveling overseas. Nor is this a book for people who don't want to read an autobiography of a less-than-perfect person (who is more than willing to admit that she is less-than-perfect.) It is not an introduction to spiritual journeys or an Italian cookbook. This is one woman's story about herself and a year out of her life.
And yes, the publisher did give her an advance to take this trip and write a book, but I doubt it was free money. I'm sure that, had she not delivered a book at all, she would have had to repay. Plus, as an established writer prior to this book coming out, the publisher probably felt she was trustworthy. Which, in my opinion, she obviously was.
I loved this book and would highly recommend it to everyone, so long as you don't expect the book to be something it never claims it is.
This is not a book to read if you want to learn how to better your life or learn all the hot-spots to visit when traveling overseas. Nor is this a book for people who don't want to read an autobiography of a less-than-perfect person (who is more than willing to admit that she is less-than-perfect.) It is not an introduction to spiritual journeys or an Italian cookbook. This is one woman's story about herself and a year out of her life.
And yes, the publisher did give her an advance to take this trip and write a book, but I doubt it was free money. I'm sure that, had she not delivered a book at all, she would have had to repay. Plus, as an established writer prior to this book coming out, the publisher probably felt she was trustworthy. Which, in my opinion, she obviously was.
I loved this book and would highly recommend it to everyone, so long as you don't expect the book to be something it never claims it is.
Danielle reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This is absolutely my favorite book on this planet. If you have ever been bit by the travel bug, add this book to your wishlist. It's a MUST!
jaedoe -
excellent, a page turner that take you traveling, eating, loving and on a spiritual quest.
Katie G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Thoroughly enjoyable. A very inspiring story. Good for anyone (man or woman, really) who feels a little lost sometimes. It's good to know we're not the only ones who feel that way.
Hanika F. (maitaidream) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Great book! Such an inspiring story about life and all its greatness!! Definitely a good read!
Sheri B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 51 more book reviews
interesting life exploration.
Amy H. (IntrepidOne) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 157 more book reviews
Honestly, I didn't think I would like this book at all based on a lot of the reviews. I loved it. Makes me want to dig out my husband's yoga books and study them. Very nice read.
Susan Y. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 6 more book reviews
A book I wanted to read after all the reviews. It was an okay book but I couldnt rate it any higher. Maybe it just isnt my type of book!!
Sandra C. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
Fabulous book. I loved all of it. Took it to Italy with me so it was the perfect read.
Liz S. (lizzysugar) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
good read....looking forward to movie.
Elle H. (Smellen) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
If you have seen the movie without reading the book, I suggest you read it. Many people thought she was selfish in the movie. Had they read the book they would have seen she was going through a year of healing and renewal. The book gives more insights to her inner thoughts.
Cindy S. (mamacindy) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 34 more book reviews
I did like this book. It was interesting but I don't want to see the movie.
Ardee E. (sagemoon-cottage) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
There are sections of this book that touched me deeply. It was all a warm journey, ever open, ever learning. Maybe a bit too much pasta, but the rest is an absolute gem.
Dixie H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 26 more book reviews
The quest of Elizabeth is one which I could identify. I love her writing style. It is a page turner.
Kathleen (momkat) -
I barely got through the first 20 pages then just had to drop it. There were moments where I thought 'oh! that was funny'...but truly nothing that held my interest for longer than a moment.
How they could make a movie from it, I do not know...but perhaps that's why the movie hit the theaters for such a short time then poof..onto the video shelves it went.
How they could make a movie from it, I do not know...but perhaps that's why the movie hit the theaters for such a short time then poof..onto the video shelves it went.
Leah G. (LeahG) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 320 more book reviews
A very warm, in depth story told from the heart.
Johanna J. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Will make you take a look at your life.
Laura N. (LauraBookworm) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 12 more book reviews
Loved the book. Can't wait to see the movie with Julia Roberts this summer.
Jennifer N. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This was a great book. Very entertaining and somewhat educational too.
teamnick reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 34 more book reviews
I loved this book. I can honestly say that after reading this book I wanted to be a better person. I think everyone can relate to the struggles the author went through in her quest to find happiness.
Dave L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 43 more book reviews
I wonderful read and very applicable to the busy, stressed-out American lives that so many of us live these days. It will definitely make me look at life and the need for balance in a much different way.
Liz reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
For anyone with a spiritual / self-help bent - and if you love to travel and escape into another life.
Andres L. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Really good book. As a man it was a bit of a irregular read. I really enjoyed the book, she is very upfront about everything and its downright funny at times to read the dilemmas she goes through. If your a guy get a cover or something because apparently its a "girl book" and women were wondering why I was reading such a book. It was very different from "a long way gone" which I had just finished reading a day before I opened this one up.
Bonnie S. (Bonnie) -
I have read some of the meanest reviews about Eat, Pray, Love. Just mean. Some focus on how could she possibly go to India and not be affected by the poverty, and not even mention it in her drivel?Go
Well, dang, I didn't want to read about poverty in India. I wanted to read about what it was like in an Ashram for someone. And that is what she wrote. She was criticized for eating so much in Italy. She was criticized for finding a new love in Indonesia. She was blasted for leaving her husband, after all, just why did she leave the poor fellow. I guess it wasn't enough that she said right in the intro that she was not going to humiliate him by giving us intimate details. And so what if she was miserable and the causes did not appear to be enough for some people. Every one has their own misery levels and goals.
But I just loved this book. Some stuff in the beginning reminded me, sadly, of me in another life.
Yes, I wish I could have gone to Italy and had my trip paid for by my publisher who was going to publish the book I would write...but that isn't what happened. Yes, I am envious. They paid for all of the trips. But that does not mean it is a bad book. I love her writing style, her sense of humor. Her honesty. Not easy, I imagine, to talk about masturbation in a personal memoir!
And, I really wanted her to end up with the guy she ends up with after all. Reviewers hated that she did. Bah on them.
This is a fun book!
Well, dang, I didn't want to read about poverty in India. I wanted to read about what it was like in an Ashram for someone. And that is what she wrote. She was criticized for eating so much in Italy. She was criticized for finding a new love in Indonesia. She was blasted for leaving her husband, after all, just why did she leave the poor fellow. I guess it wasn't enough that she said right in the intro that she was not going to humiliate him by giving us intimate details. And so what if she was miserable and the causes did not appear to be enough for some people. Every one has their own misery levels and goals.
But I just loved this book. Some stuff in the beginning reminded me, sadly, of me in another life.
Yes, I wish I could have gone to Italy and had my trip paid for by my publisher who was going to publish the book I would write...but that isn't what happened. Yes, I am envious. They paid for all of the trips. But that does not mean it is a bad book. I love her writing style, her sense of humor. Her honesty. Not easy, I imagine, to talk about masturbation in a personal memoir!
And, I really wanted her to end up with the guy she ends up with after all. Reviewers hated that she did. Bah on them.
This is a fun book!
Stefanie G. (mrs-opp) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 21 more book reviews
Thoughtful and well written.
Suzanne S. (Suzgot2) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 82 more book reviews
Good book about making life worth living and living it to the fullest. I liked this book but found Tales of A Female Nomad a tad bit more enjoyable.
This is a wonderful feel-good book for women. Very worth the read.
This is a wonderful feel-good book for women. Very worth the read.
Shelley G. (ssgilby) -
Wow! Harsh reviews, but not from me! I haven't even finished this book, but I feel compelled to review it. That's how much I love this book! I find it insightful, meaningful, entertaining, witty, just plain awesome! I can so identify with Elizabeth Gilbert. Regarding other reviews, I don't care if her trip was paid for or if some thought the ending was cliched or what Gilbert found and where. It was HER journey, not any of ours. This book makes me feel good!
Courtney R. (courtneyerin) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 5 more book reviews
Could not put it down! Amazing book!
EMILIE P. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
a very nice book about seeking yourself and a great story
Kristin D. (kdurham2813) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 753 more book reviews
Well another one on audio, another memoirish book. I have enjoyed that both books I have listened to were read by the person they really happened to - made the experience more personal.
As far as the book, it was interesting. I liked how it was divided up between the three countries that she visited, but I didn't fall in love with this book. The minute I heard the book was going to be made into a movie with Julia Roberts, the book jumped to the top of my wish list.
Sometimes I felt as though she was beating me over the head with her thoughts on religion - I agreed with her at times, but goodness she has opinions! She definitely convinced me that Italy would be a place where I would love to go and visit for awhile.
There isn't much to say - I liked it, but it didn't excite me or send me overboard. It was a good read - I would pass it onto my friends who like memoirish books.
As far as the book, it was interesting. I liked how it was divided up between the three countries that she visited, but I didn't fall in love with this book. The minute I heard the book was going to be made into a movie with Julia Roberts, the book jumped to the top of my wish list.
Sometimes I felt as though she was beating me over the head with her thoughts on religion - I agreed with her at times, but goodness she has opinions! She definitely convinced me that Italy would be a place where I would love to go and visit for awhile.
There isn't much to say - I liked it, but it didn't excite me or send me overboard. It was a good read - I would pass it onto my friends who like memoirish books.
Kelly O. (KellyWilloughby) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 209 more book reviews
Interesting read
Amber N. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
A wonderful journey of personal growth and acceptance.
Bookfanatic reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Talk about having First World problems. Gilbert has a nice home in a nice neighborhood. She has a good career, enough money, some fame, and blonde good looks. In short, she is by most accounts, a privileged White American. She and her husband divorce. To heal from the breakup of her marriage and find her authentic self, she decides to embark on a trip abroad. Of course we all know meaning and truth about life can only be found by going overseas to exotic locales.
Why do people in Westernized countries feel they have to go to the East to find spirituality? It exoticizes people in Asia. By the way, this book doesn't teach you anything new about Bali or India. It just reinforces stereotypes about going to Asia - you know that magical, other worldly, timeless place where Americans can find the answers to life from friendly, dark skinned people.
I didn't care for the book in case it wasn't obvious. She's so self-absorbed with her so-called problems that I really couldn't muster any sympathy or interest.
Why do people in Westernized countries feel they have to go to the East to find spirituality? It exoticizes people in Asia. By the way, this book doesn't teach you anything new about Bali or India. It just reinforces stereotypes about going to Asia - you know that magical, other worldly, timeless place where Americans can find the answers to life from friendly, dark skinned people.
I didn't care for the book in case it wasn't obvious. She's so self-absorbed with her so-called problems that I really couldn't muster any sympathy or interest.
Susan B. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 10 more book reviews
my top 10 list
Jennifer C. (JennJenn523) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 59 more book reviews
Loved it. Very inspiring.
Cameron D. (camnicole) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
great book. every time i read it, i want to start meditating. :)
Jessica S. (messyjessieduh) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Inspiring--couldn't put it down. Enough said :)
Jennifer J. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 18 more book reviews
The author is talented and funny, however the person who wrote the book is really fixated on herself and her needs.
I spent the book alternating between wanting to give Liz a hug and wanting to slap her face. I guess I am annoyed that her final conclusion is that she just has to make herself happy to have a good life. That is not my belief of my life's purpose, and so I feel like she wasted that year navel-gazing.
I spent the book alternating between wanting to give Liz a hug and wanting to slap her face. I guess I am annoyed that her final conclusion is that she just has to make herself happy to have a good life. That is not my belief of my life's purpose, and so I feel like she wasted that year navel-gazing.
Debby W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 44 more book reviews
I loved when she was in Italy other than that - blah!
Allison L. (marci65) -
This was a good book. I found the Italy and Indonesia sections the most entertaining (in that order), but the India section dragged for me. Overall the book was definitely worth reading.
Kathy G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 329 more book reviews
An OK read, but not my type of book so was hard for me to keep interested in it. I found the last third of book more interesting than the beginning.
Roni L. (dilbretta) -
I have heard some of the negative reviews about that book and the author. I knew that this is a book about her so, of course it's going to be "about her". However, I do see others' point, in that she does seem a little self-consumed, but it IS a memoir ... I read some books focusing on the needs and tragedies on earth, and its a nice change sometimes to live vicariously through someone who can live onto herself, once in awhile. The author is genuine and honest. No one has to agree with her especially her religious perspective. I relate to what she went through in her broken relationships and I understand the need for her to find herself without any questions. Well, only if any of us could just get up and go to 3 countries in a year... 8-)
I found the second part of the book to be a bit tough to get through in the beginning but as she started to "get" the meditation for what it is supposed to be, it got a little easier to read from there. I find myself re-reading paragraphs, rolling the words around my mouth and head. Mostly I envy her, all of her travels, adventures, and journey of self-discovery, and also her writing style. It is beautiful, descriptive, and engrossing. I think any woman who has gone through a not-so-great relationship or low self-esteem/concept will probably relate to this book and the author's experiences.
The book is amazingly written and such a joy to read. Read it, enjoy it! There is a sequel - a book titled "Committed". I might may read this book someday.
I found the second part of the book to be a bit tough to get through in the beginning but as she started to "get" the meditation for what it is supposed to be, it got a little easier to read from there. I find myself re-reading paragraphs, rolling the words around my mouth and head. Mostly I envy her, all of her travels, adventures, and journey of self-discovery, and also her writing style. It is beautiful, descriptive, and engrossing. I think any woman who has gone through a not-so-great relationship or low self-esteem/concept will probably relate to this book and the author's experiences.
The book is amazingly written and such a joy to read. Read it, enjoy it! There is a sequel - a book titled "Committed". I might may read this book someday.
Eliza T. (lizalove) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 4 more book reviews
I'm not sure why many members are slamming this book. This is a wonderful, inspirational read. I love it. The movie was good too but I think you should read the book first. I think this book can relate to anyone and Gilbert's humor is great. Awesome book, 5 stars
Valerie S. (stevensfamily) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I was a good book. I also enjoyed the movie.
Maureen G. (mogovea) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This was the most thought provoking book that I have read in a long time. It is a keeper...sorry!!! I have marked passages and will return to it often for inspiration.
Kimberly S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Absolutely LOVE this book! It is so well written that it feels as if you are experiencing the emotions as the author describes them. The experience the author has in each country is so uniquely different that it will keep you turning the pages to see what happened next. A must have in everyone's library.
Nancy G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 3 more book reviews
I have a daughter who was just going through a crisis when I read EAT,PRAY,LOVE. When I finished the book, I passed it on to her. It is not only a good story but suggests the things that are important in keeping our perspective on life.
Darilee P. (cozysleuth) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 153 more book reviews
Very humorous with thoughtful and sad moments thru three countries and the U.S.A. Author is a good journalist and story teller.
Diane G. (dddevole) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Loved this book. One of my all time favorites.
Diane W. (DiWrites) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 46 more book reviews
I am about half way through this book, and loving it already. It's an excellent, easy read and reflects what I think a lot of women feel after choosing to live their true life and not the one they thought they "should" be living. I see why it's sold 7 miliion copies. Highly recommend it to anyone who struggles with whether or not they're living their right life.
Deborah K. -
Enjoyable book. Would recommend to anyone.
Keric H. (Keric) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down. It's a very enjoyable read, very thoughtful and humorous at times.
Melissa H. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 8 more book reviews
There are a lot of bad reviews about this book but it is one of my favorites. It just touched me. India was my favorite section of the book.
Laurin G. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 57 more book reviews
What's not to love?
Haley reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 9 more book reviews
Good book. Thought-provoking. I've never read anything like it and I'm not usually into self-help books (or anything of that genre). Bad movie though. Simply awful. If you enjoyed the book avoid the movie.
Diane F. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
Not the best book I ever read, but good.
Beth T. (clemsongal) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This was a phenomenal and inspiring book. I will not be posting it here to give away as I'm sure I will be reading it again and again. Something I rarely do!
Avi B. (wobjab) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Thought It was Terrific and Funny
Wendy K. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 2 more book reviews
For the most part I enjoyed this book. The writing flows well, though it leans a bit too much on colloquialisms I find annoying, such as "Me and my lover, we.." (I forget now what they did, but it was annoying. I would have rated this book higher, but as a vegan I find it difficult to reconcile sprituality with the continued oppression and mutilation of animals, especially for those of us who live in western countries where non-animal alternatives abound. To me that smacked of hypocrisy.
That said, there is still an inspirational and hopeful element to the book, while it is at the same time an intimate memoir.
That said, there is still an inspirational and hopeful element to the book, while it is at the same time an intimate memoir.
Shanikque W. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
eat, pray, love
Sarah A. (sla506) -
Worst. Book. Ever.
Barbara S. (BabsE) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 14 more book reviews
Enjoyed this book but it was nothing special.
Lisa S. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 17 more book reviews
loved this book
IONE L. (zaneygraylady) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 57 more book reviews
loved this book
Mary T. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 11 more book reviews
An intriguing journey of a modern women's quest of self discovery.
Karla F. (KarlaF) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 106 more book reviews
Fantastic memoir. Enough said.
Rachel D. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Absolutley loved this book!
Dabney E. (wellread) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
Must read!
Heather B. (heather4kj) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 7 more book reviews
I have not read this book but I have heard nothing good about it to make me want to read it. Another terrible book from Oprah, I have tried several of her books and no thank you. I thought at first this would have something to do about christ and religion but that is far from the truth. Dont waste your time.
Danielle R. reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on
This book is now on my favorite book list. I can't recommend it enough!!!
Jennifer H. (Jenjane) reviewed Eat, Pray, Love : One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia on + 41 more book reviews
All three chapters afre very different and it is a very spiritual book
John O. (buzzby) -
I agree with everything everyone has said about this book.
