The book is an easy read. It is mostly travelogues of an unhappy American who is searching for happiness and contentment. The author went to 3 countries, Italy, India and Indonesia. Although she had been in these countries before, she still saw her adventure in fresh eyes as a local not just a tourist staying temporarily.
One of the things that I like about this book was the smart writing. If I can only write like this. Her wit and humor carries all the entertainment value of a page turner. The Italy segment was priceless. For a moment, I wish I am friends with Luca Spaghetti. The fact that Italian men go to a local bakery to commiserate after their sports team loss instead of a bar is amusing. Its all clean fun after all.
Although, I skipped the most of the India narration of meditating. This is the time that the author was trying to find balance and harmony. The only good thing about this segment is Richard from Texas.
I find myself on a fast forward to Indonesia. This last leg of her trip. Now, the author sounded more relaxed spending most of her time with the medicine man, Ketut. It was an interesting read since I have no idea on the Balinese family structure. This is the portion when I wish I could write like the author. For her to explain the intricacies of the process in buying real estate in Bali. Its all plain talent.
Overall, it is a good wrap up. She found love and happiness and gained more friends. She mentioned that she would want her own meditation room when she comes back home. Her website mentioned that she currently lives in New Jersey. I guess she got what she wanted and with all that book sales, she got more than she dreamed of.
Another add on: Oprah had an entire episode dedicated to this book. She had gathered people who went on a pilgramage to follow on Liz's journey primarily in Bali. I wonder if this a background check to make sure that she is not a James Frey. You know, the embellishment and all. If you check on the author's website, she have some photos to prove that those people from her book were real. Admittedly, I have a different picture of Ketut in my head.
Personally, I didn't even thought of following her journey. I am more of a believer on finding your own steps. Look for this book for inspiration. Treat it like a friend that was telling you a story of haps and mishaps.
Well, it was a good Oprah episode. It was satisfying to know that the author and her Brazilian boyfriend will eventually get married. So, its a happy ending after all.
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