Come Reza Ama

Name: Come Reza Ama
ISBN: 9789562398466

First published 1970
448 pages
Spanish

At thirty-four years old, Elizabeth Gilbert had everything a modern American woman was supposed to want - a husband, a home, and a successful career. But instead of feeling fulfilled, she was consumed by panic and confusion. This memoir chronicles the year that followed a painful divorce and a crushing depression, when Gilbert decided to take a radical step. She embarked on a yearlong journey - alone - to three different countries to examine three different aspects of her own nature.

In Italy, she indulges in the art of pleasure, learning the language and rediscovering the joy of food. In India, she devotes herself to the art of spiritual exploration, living in an ashram and confronting her inner self. In Indonesia, she seeks to find a balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence. This candid and eloquent account is a story of self-discovery, a quest for meaning, and a reflection on what can happen when you claim responsibility for your own contentment.

Genres: Fiction › Romance Fiction › Contemporary fiction Fiction › Religious fiction
Themes: Art & creativity › Writers & writing Gender › Womanhood Religion & faith
Where and when: Italy United States India Finland Indonesia

What readers say

3.65

1.9M ratings across the web

6 in 10 readers loved it, 2 didn't like it

This memoir garners praise for its engaging and witty writing style, particularly in its vivid descriptions of Italy and its culinary delights. Many readers found the author’s honest portrayal of her emotional struggles, including depression and the aftermath of a divorce, deeply relatable and courageous. For those navigating similar life changes or seeking personal growth, the book offered a sense of validation and inspiration, encouraging self-reflection and the pursuit of individual happiness. Reviewers appreciated the author’s vulnerability and her willingness to share an intensely personal journey of healing and self-discovery.

However, the book also draws significant criticism, primarily for its perceived self-absorption and the author’s apparent lack of awareness regarding her privilege. Many found her narrative to be whiny and narcissistic, especially when set against the backdrop of the poverty she encountered in India and Indonesia, which critics felt she largely ignored or engaged with superficially. The spiritual quest, particularly in India, was often described as shallow, insincere, and unconvincing, leading some to question the authenticity of her "enlightenment." Reviewers also expressed frustration with what they saw as an entitled approach to leaving responsibilities and using other cultures as mere backdrops for personal transformation.

Ultimately, "Eat, Pray, Love" is a polarizing memoir. It resonates strongly with readers who identify with the author’s emotional journey of overcoming personal heartbreak and seeking a renewed sense of self, particularly those open to a narrative focused on individual introspection and self-care. Conversely, it is likely to disappoint those seeking a deeper cultural exploration, a more profound spiritual narrative, or a protagonist who demonstrates greater social awareness and less perceived self-indulgence.