I really, really enjoyed Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. And why? Because I felt like this was a case of vicariously walking in her moccasins. And, I rarely have so much simpatico with an author.

The author's issues and ways of dealing with the effects of her actions struck me as so human that my emotions came forward during hers. This is a book that involves the reader thoroughly; you have to wonder if she's had a special peek into your life, while recounting her experiences.

Ms. Gilbert is not afraid to let her hair down with us and exposes much more of her deeper feelings and reactions to events than I would consider sharing out loud. And perhaps that is the secret to her success in engaging the reader in her journey. She comes across as a real flesh and blood human who works very hard at seeking. Seeking temporal answers; seeking eternal insight.

Not often do writers share so much of themselves as examples for the inspiration of others. But, Elizabeth Gilbert shows herself to be more than an author, she is an inspiring meditation practitioner; you just want to get down and sit still right along with her.

Her weavings of life insights and practical knowledge on her journey make this book an invaluable resource for both the casual reader wanting a look at how women tick, and for the sincere meditator or spiritual seeker.

The book title Eat Pray Love may seem confusing, but to me it represents dimensions of our human journey: eat of life for activity and physical experience; pray and meditate for spiritual insight; love for human fulfillment.

As such, I certainly recommend Eat Pray Love as a model of what one can accomplish on the path that includes the search for human fulfillment; divine experience.

Details - 352 pages; Penguin Books (January 30, 2007); Size: 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.8 inches ISBN-10: 0143038419 ISBN-13: 978-0143038412

Available from Amazon.com
Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Review by Susan Kramer