Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

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This is another bestseller that has gotten a lot of attention, including (again) from Oprah. However, as opposed to some other books that are all hype and no real substance, this one was really outstanding. It contains chunks of “spiritual guidance” that many could perceive as mumbo-jumbo, but they’re sincere and actually interesting and thought-provoking.

The best part of the book, however, is not its advice or life lessons per se, (at least not for me) but its style. Gilbert is tremendously funny and entertaining. Her book tells of the months she spent after a painful divorce and another relationship breakup include eating her way around Italy, meditating in an Ashram in India, and trying to find balance Bali-style in Indonesia.

Her narratives are just so personal and enjoyable. Gilbert has a great sense of humor and just throws in wry little observances throughout the book. A particularly hilarious page simply relays the rants of an old soccer fan sitting behind her at a game. She writes the whole rant in Italian and then translates it into English. The vulgarity spewed out by this elderly fan adds significantly to the reason the book isn’t “clean.” But it is really, really funny. She just … captures the feel of everything so perfectly.

Rated: High for language. There are about 8 to 10 occasions of strong language, as well as about the same number of moderate language. There are references to sex sprinkled throughout, but not many details.

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