2¢ Worth: Liz, bless her heart, came off a bit wishy-washy woe is me. Sorry! Consequently, I ended up skimming almost all of the Eat and Love. However, I relished all the Pray. I admire Liz's passion for God, her hunger and drive to search for the divine, and her honest unconventional reflections on our creator. Plus, I found her writing style to be earnest and often funny. So even though I could not stand certain parts, I could not get enough of other parts. As a whole it wasn't for me but I can not knock her writing and have to ask, has anyone tried her novel Stern Men? Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert
Review Copyright © of Tales of Whimsy.com
I saw the movie..., actually not too long ago, but don't remember much, haha. Not that memorable..., I think I expected it to be a bit more profound and insightful.
ReplyDeleteI think this was the last memoir I reviewed because I just couldn't take it anymore. It was so self-indulgent and I couldn't see all sides of the story because she flat out wouldn't talk about everything. Not that I'm nosey, but it was hard to feel bad for her at all because she seemed so selfish for most of the story. But that's just me. Lots of people loved the story, obviously. Just not for me either.
ReplyDeleteLoved your review though. I really enjoyed the "pray" section as well. It was one of the places in the book where I could really reflect and think about my own feelings toward the subject. Nice.
1st daughter: You know how when people play charades they dance around and tap their finger to their nose? Sort of like a "ding ding ding". That was how I felt when I read your comment. I SO SO SO agree. I couldn't feel bad for her either! I was like, "What? Really? Why? Blech."
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you :) I found my self re-reading her Pray parts :)
Maya: Yah :) I feel ya! My favorite part of the movie was all the beautiful places she visited. I wanted her house in Bali.
I watched a bit of the movie but that seemed pretty dull too, but will give it another go
ReplyDeleteI admit I haven't read or seen the movie. There is bad vibe that bugs me about her. JMHO
ReplyDeleteBlod: I didn't love the film much. But like I was telling Maya, I loved the locations :)
ReplyDeleteJulie: I feel ya ;)
Thanks for the review. I keep chastising myself for not having read it, but maybe I should let go of the guilt.
ReplyDeleteI had a copy of this and gave it away before I read it. Will probably wait for the movie to come on disc.
ReplyDeleteGood luck, I couldn't get through that book. Here is my review of it: http://manoflabook.com/wp/?p=13
ReplyDeleteCami: Yes doll! Do ;) While it's for some - it's really not for all :) Thanks for passing by!
ReplyDeleteElie: Good call :)
Man of la books: On my way now :) Thanks so much for the link!
I haven't read this one but my mother in law has and she said she had a similar problem - loved certain parts but could barely make it through others. Thanks for your 2 cents Juju!
ReplyDeleteJenny: Yay! I love hearing I'm not alone. Ultimately I think this book would be best read as an eBook so the reader can keyword search the parts the parts they want. Thanks for visiting Jenny! :)
ReplyDeleteI just don't think I will every read this month. It holds zero interest for me.
ReplyDeleteAndrea: Completely understandable :) I had high hopes. I wanted her to find bliss and brilliance. But it didn't quite fly.
ReplyDeleteI know my roommate absolutely loved this book, but I couldn't deal with it. Eeek! I'm a very strong personality, I guess, and I got tired of Liz's issues. *sigh* This is why I read escapist adventure novels, I suppose?
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the film. I haven't cared for Julia Roberts films as of late, but I thought this was pretty good. Like you I thought the places she visited were beautiful! I was definitely hungry for Italian food after her trip to Italy. Not a movie to watch on an empty stomach! I wonder how her new book is? I'm volunteering at my library and found it interesting Eat, Pray, Love is located in the travel section not in the memoirs and bios.
ReplyDeleteCelia: I feel ya and I'm the same way *high five* Escapism ROCKS.
ReplyDeleteJulie: Really? It's in travel? That is interesting. I had no idea. I wonder if that differs from library to library? Man I was in loooooove with her place in Bali. Everything about that place was enchanting. O I wanted her Bali house. Please let me know if you try any of her other books :)
Ha! Was this the memoir you were talking about when you posted about not jiving with the main character? I love how I commented on that post and said it's one of my favorite books. lol! I think my sister only made it through the "Eat" section and the rest couldn't hold her. It really has gotten some of the most diverse responses, you know? I definitely know where you're coming from when you talk about Liz's attitude. Looking back, she was quite over-the-top. I think what I enjoyed most was her writing style, and also the overall idea of someone going on such a grand adventure. It felt like a movie and it had me thinking "This was real! These things happen in real life, too!" Haha.
ReplyDeleteI have read Stern Men and unfortunately I didn't like it. I thought her writing was completely different. It felt very cynical and sarcastic, and the main character was perpetually grumpy and anti-social. I'm sure other people might like it, but it's probably that I was expecting something entirely different. :/
At least you gave it a try! I saw the movie and hated it, so I'm passing the book too. Meh, not for me!
ReplyDeletei've heard a lot of bad things about this one, not reviews but people i know who love books and didn't like this one.
ReplyDeleteOh yeah girl, I just couldn't finish this one. Thought Liz was horribly self-indulgent, selfish and definitely woe-is-me.
ReplyDeleteShe didn't come across as someone I would want to know in real life.
Too bad you didnt like it, I thought it would be better too.
ReplyDeleteHaha. I felt the exact same way. I don't enjoy a book if I don't like the main character no matter how good the writing.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to read your two cents worth and the comments. I had looked at this book but it was too expensive.
ReplyDeleteYeah, this one wasn't for me either. I was hoping that I would enjoy it...but it was for me to sympathize with her. Hmm, not that I think back, I may not have even finished it :)
ReplyDeleteAppreciate your honesty with this book. I don't think it would be something I would like, regardless. Its not my type of read.
ReplyDeleteOh that's sad! I've seen the movie, and I have the book to read. there were parts of the movie I just could not relate to, like her wanting the divorce...but other parts, like savoring the food of Italy, learning to pray and meditate - oh those were quite enjoyable! I want to go on my own trip, although I think I would pick Greece for the food, India for prayer, and the Great Barrier Reef to top it off!
ReplyDeleteI've been interested in Committed. It has something to do with her husband and immigration. As far as the library, I was told that it has to do with Author/Publisher. Say for instance, Julie & Julia. We think it would be in memoirs, but it may be in cooking because that's what the author or publisher wants. I'm going to find out more. It may also have to do with how the Library of Congress designates it. Btw...can I visit you in Bali if you ever have a house there?
ReplyDeleteThanks for your honest review. This is definitely not the book for me! :)
ReplyDeleteI felt the exact same way as you. It was okay, and I didn't hate it or anything, but eh. Not for me.
ReplyDeleteoh no! I saw this book at the bookstore and I really wanted to buy it. It had such a beautiful cover with Julia Roberts on it. But now after reading your review I really don't know if I still want too. Maybe.. I thought this would be a lot more fun. Maybe I should watch the movie first. Or is that one bad too?
ReplyDeleteAh, alas...I've heard about the "character" portrayed in the book, and your thoughts echo what I've heard. Sad too since the movie was great in my opinion. Still, it is in Mount TBR and will be read....very curious about it despite all the less-than-stellar reviews. Hey, what can I say, I love to buck the trend. Happy reading! ^_^
ReplyDeleteOkay, this totally does not relate to the book, but I watched the movie, and wasn't too interested. I ended up folding laundry in the middle of it. I don't think the book is for me either, although my cousin absolutely loved it. Sorry it didn't work out for you! It's always so sad when you realize a book isn't giving you what you're looking for. Hope the next one is better!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your honest review. I met quite a few people who dint have many nice things to say about this book. I still thought I should watch the movie to look at it from my own view but - after your review I think I will just pass it on.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading this book but agree that there were some woe-is-me moments, especially at the beginning. Reading it made we want to go on my own international adventure.
ReplyDeleteAfter watching the movie, I really wasn't interested in reading the book. Like you, there were parts of it I enjoyed, but overall, I just couldn't get into it.
ReplyDeleteI've heard similar things about this one. The pray part sounds inspirational. I haven't watched the movie or read the book, but I'm still interested.
ReplyDeleteOh Juju you really wanted to read this too, at least the Pray was worth your time but to bad it wasn't a great read. Most of my blogging friends didn't enjoy it, I was holding out hope for you.
ReplyDeleteGuess what Juju-bean I didnt like this book either...You seemed very excited about it sorry it fell flat...:(
ReplyDeleteThe movie is a little better...I got stuck going to see it on a GNO with friends and just like the book....I disliked the movie as well. I think the biggest thing that turned me off was her whole "spiritual" journey....Dear God I must divorce my husband and have an affair with a very young man in order to find my God light inside me that is me all mighty...WTCRAP is that about anyway???!!!
you know i loved her stint in italy. eat. yum. have been meaning to read stern men but not yet.
ReplyDeleteCasee Marie:
ReplyDelete1. I remember thinking when I saw your comment, "Oh no! Hopefully she'll understand." *smile* You are so right. It's gets all kinds of responses. And all kind of strong reactions too.
2. You have quite the point. I looooved the travel aspect of her life. How she dreamt and made it happen.
3. O Stern Men feedback! Thank you. Cynical and sarcastic. Good to know! :) Thank you so much for giving me your thoughts.
Aths: Yah! Good point. That's right :) I didn't love the movie either ;) But I did love that fine man she ended up with. *wink wink*
Carrie: Yah me too :)
Vamp: *high five* I totally agree! Like the kind of gal who would find me insensitive.
Jenny N.: Agreed :)
Reflections: OMG how true. If the character doesn't hook me - I'm a goner. ;)
Kaye: Yah! Glad to help :) Definitely one to borrow from the library if you're considering it.
Lizzy: *high five* I had such a hard time sympathizing with her.
Gina Precious: I feel ya :) And appreciate you dropping by.
Stacy: It's funny how so many people have a favorite part. I do LOVE your idea of doing my own Eat, Pray, Love. *scratching chin* I think I would like to Eat in France, Pray in Jerusalem, and Love (w/Mr. Whimsy) in Scotland.
Julie:
1. Immigration really? Very cool. Being the child of two immigrants, I am always fascinated with immigration tales. I hope you read it, 'cause I would love to hear your thoughts.
2. As for the library: Oh interesting. So they can choose to put it where they think it would sell or work best. That makes sense. As for Bali, yes ma'am you can ;)
Lily & Jillian & Dara: I feel ya :)
Nina: Definitely try the movie! If the story draws you - then try the book :)
GMR & Missie: You know I completely agree/understand. Sometimes bad reviews make me want to try something more. :)
Penelope: LOL I had issues with it too. The scenery and locations were gorgeous but I was eh about her. :)
Kavyen: You should try the movie. While I didn't dig it, I've heard of some people who love it :) Thanks so much for visiting! :)
Midnight Cowgirl: Amen! That's what I was just saying to Stacy :) I think I would like to Eat in France, Pray in Jerusalem, and Love (w/Mr. Whimsy) in Scotland.
Marce: LOL Ah I'm so sorry! Are you an EPL lover? :)
Tina:
1. Yah I was. Total bummer. But I am so glad I tried. :)
2. I had a similar powerful reaction/turn off moment to her leaving her husband. I wanted to know why and when she didn't tell me, I found myself unable to sympathize for her.
VV: O let me know when you do :)
I saw the movie and it didn't do too much for me, so I haven't looked for the book.
ReplyDeleteBermuda: Good call ;)
ReplyDeleteOkay, I'm in the minority here, but loved the book! I guess I must have been in the right place at the right time for it--read it 4 years ago. The movie was very lackluster even tho I do like Julia Roberts. Haven't read her other books.
ReplyDeleteI'd thought about picking this one up. It didn't do much for you huh?
ReplyDeleteI read it for a book club so we chatted a LOT about it. AND I Love Julia Roberts. She was sweet in the movie.
ReplyDeleteI feel like one of the last people in the world who has not read this. I haven't seen the movie either. A friend of mine did and said it was really good. She hasn't read the book yet.
ReplyDeleteGreat honest review!
I completely agree. Plus, it seemed like she was looking for sympathy and that was an emotion that I just couldn't bring myself to feel as I read this book.
ReplyDeleteLOL> Loved your thoughts on this one :) i haven't read it but I get the sense it's not particularly for me. My library, however, has the dvd :) I may get it out one time when i am in the mood :)
ReplyDeleteThanks also for your LOVELY get well message on my blog. You are REALLY kind! Feeling oh-so-much better but not all the way better yet...
have a BRILLIANT weekend!
I kind of liked this book, but I liked the message more than the book, itself. Love your take on it ;)
ReplyDeleteGeorgia: Yay! :) I knew you all were out there ;)
ReplyDeleteJoy: Nah. Try the movie first *wink wink*
Michelle: She was sweet in the movie :) And I can see it being great for discusssions.
April: Thanks :) I hope you dig it more than I did.
JessicaBookLover: O true! It felt kinda forced for sympathy. Good call ;)
Nomes:
1. Perfect way to start. If the film draws you, then try the book. :)
2. No prob! So glad to hear you're better :)
Melissa: Right on! I can totally get that :) And thank you :)
I've come across novels like that too where I loved some parts and hated others... sometimes it made me wonder if the author is actually two or three persons collaborating...
ReplyDeleteCherry: LOL very good point and observation.
ReplyDeleteI don't remember too much about this one but it was the first memoir I remember reading. I did like the movie though it wasn't amazing or anything.
ReplyDeleteLadytink: That's a fair breakdown ;) So which was your favorite, Italy, India, or Indonesia?
ReplyDeleteI watched the movie and it was okay but I'm still not interested in the book. Glad you could pick out what you wanted from it!
ReplyDeleteItaly!
ReplyDeleteI had heard great things about this one, saved it for a vacation book... bad mistake. I HATED IT! I tried to finish it, but could not manage the pain of it. I don't care to see the movie either and I love julia...
ReplyDeleteAlyssa: I feel ya ;) And thanks for popping by :)
ReplyDeleteLadytink: :) Cool cool!
Room: O I feel ya *high five* I usually love Julia movies too! :)
By the time I caught the buzz about E,P,L, Julia Roberts was already cast. Now I loved Julia in her hey day but I have since tired of her trademark grin. As soon as I saw the trailer (and the grin), I just sort of lost interest in the movie and the book. I'm never one to read a book after a movie.
ReplyDeleteBookBelle: I feel ya! :) Sometimes an actress just grows tiresome. I'm sort of feeling that with Reese.
ReplyDeleteFunny, I like reading the book after I've seen the movie. If I do it the other way around, I end up disliking the film since to me the book is always better ;)
Hey Juju!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this review, I've been debating on reading it for quite a while. I'm sorry you didn't enjoy the Eat and Love of it! That's cool that she was trying to find/understand god.
Katie: Really? Very cool! I'm so glad I helped :)
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the "Eat" section - now, granted, I love all things Italy and it reminded me of my honeymoon, so I guess I was bit biased. :)
ReplyDeleteCoffee: *smile* You visited Italy on your honeymoon? How very cool! Which parts? :)
ReplyDeleteStern Men has to be one of my least favorite novels read. It was a wonderful premise in a fantastic setting but it was full and slowly paced. It felt like a waste and I wished I hadn't pushed through.
ReplyDeleteMoon: Right on. Good to know. Thanks so much for the warning :) And for visiting!
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Juju! I’ve had friends who loved this book, and others who felt how you do. This is one I don’t plan to read, but I will watch the movie because I love Julia Roberts & James Franco :) Thanks for your honesty.
ReplyDeleteChristie: Right on :) Good luck and let me know how it goes :)
ReplyDeleteI have not read the book. I love Julia Roberts so I broke down and watched the movie. It was decent enough..But I just didn't get her.
ReplyDeleteCleverly: Yah I know the feeling. She was sooo whiny.
ReplyDeleteI never did read this one but would be open to it...eventually. NOt a priority though. I may just see the movie!
ReplyDeleteKelli: Try the movie. It if works, then give the book a try. Thanks so much for stopping by :D
ReplyDeleteI did try the movie and it was so blah. I could not get through it! Although I did like James Fraco. :)
ReplyDeleteYah that's what I thought too. I had to fast forward.
DeleteYou're right though, James Franco was a cutie.
I liked Javier Bardem.