Monday, May 5, 2008

A Premature Book Review: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

I've just barely cracked open the cover - I've read the first six chapters or so - of the book Eat, Pray, Love (One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia) by Elizabeth Gilbert. But it's already proving delicious. (And I have to thank my friend, Melanie, from whom I'm pretty sure I first heard about the book.)

From the short but intriguing introduction I've been drawn in, and I find myself hanging on to every one of Elizabeth's words. Her voice is so invoking, so personable, it feels like she and I are in the same room. Like she's really speaking to me, telling only me this fascinating story of hers.

As with anyone who piques my interest, I googled the author. Her official website (which is linked in her name above) is as engaging as the book itself, since the first thing you see is her lovely face, open and vulnerable. I want to hug her. Sit down, and pick apart her writer's brain. And then be her friend.

On her site, Elizabeth - or Liz, as she calls herself in the book, and as I feel so compelled to refer to her - shares some Thoughts on Writing. Her brilliant insights are too many to condense in this mere blog, but I recommend, if you're a writer (or maybe even if not), you take a gander. Her words have given me this renewed drive in regards to my own writing. I feel this focused burst of inspiration, a reason to keep on keepin' on.

But in the meantime, I'll continue reading Eat, Pray, Love. I can't wait to follow Liz on her journey, and learn with her - from her - along the way.

7 comments:

Melanie Hooyenga said...

Oh good! I'm so glad you're enjoying it. Now I don't feel so crazy for blogging about it so much. There were just so many things that touched me. She also reinspired me to keep working at my writing so I'll have to check out her website.

Janna Leadbetter said...

I feel like a loser for singing her praises so, but she's so cool!

Melanie Hooyenga said...

I understand completely. :)

Michele said...

I checked out her site. You're right! She has an amazing way with words! I love that she chose to experience life and how real people talk and live over creative writing classes.

I haven't read this book yet, but it sounds like I should. :-)

*smiles*
Michele

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Janna Leadbetter said...

If you do read it, Michele, be sure to let Melanie and me know what you think!

WendyCinNYC said...

I've had so many people recommend this book to me. I really don't know why I haven't picked it up yet.

Ok, fine! I'll add it to the list!

Thanks, Janna.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Do you have a big pile? Me, too. And I don't know how I'm gonna get through 'em all.

I hope you enjoy it!