Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

Is it for real? Is The Game by Neill Strauss an assiduously detailed, highly entertaining exposé of a fascinating secret society -- the international community of pickup artists who have refined their talents for getting women into bed to the nth degree? Or is it an extremely funny hoax? Early drafts of the book had people wondering, and men in particular speculated if the book would deliver some valuable `how to' tips as an aid to entering a sexual wonderland. In fact, it doesn't really matter whether you take the basic premise seriously or not: Strauss' wonderfully diverting book delivers great entertainment whatever your point of view.

According to Strauss, the clandestine society of men he describes here take wagers in clubs and bars throughout the Western world over just who can chalk up the most Casanova-like quantities of pickups and seductions. But this isn't merely for the thrill of an army of sexual conquests -- all of this is coded and organised according to an almost military-style ritual, with an elaborate series of rules and regulations that the participants rigorously follow. Strauss went undercover in this glamorous world, and learned the secrets of these top-drawer seducers. But, for him, there was a useful corollary affect: Strauss found himself transformed from a nerdish, unconfident journalist into a silver-tongued Lothario, quite the equal of many of the ladykilling males he had been enjoying the company of. For him, the ultimate accolade was being noted The World's Number One Pickup Artist -- and then he made the mistake of setting his sights on a woman who could give every bit as good as she got.

The world of excess presented here is not one most of us move in, but (if the truth were told) it has its irresistible attractions. Strauss wheels in such celebrities as Tom Cruise and Courtney Love, and this unblushing peek into a secret world where sex and seduction are treated with cool scientific detachment is mesmerisingly readable. --Barry Forshaw

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Spookily brilliant, 24 Jun 2008
What a discovery!!! I bought this book as part of some research for my own book and I was very pleasantly surprised.

I never made the connection that Mr Strauss was the co-author of the much lauded Motley Crue's "The Dirt".

Ok, the stories in this book may seem a bit stretched or hard to believe, but hey, it's Americans we are talking about. What I have to say is that reading this book made me look back on my failures and successes at picking women, and it was almost uncanny to read word by word where I went right and wrong.

The Game is a bit of a cross between Queer Eye For The Straight Guy cum Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus cum any rock and roll tale of debauchery you care to think of.

Interesting but not recommendable for old school romantics out there.

Great, 13 May 2008
This is a great book. Whether you decide to try to use the methods demonstration within the book or not, it makes a great story with mentions of lots of celebrities and hollywood celeb hangouts.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and for the price it is well worth it.



Amazingly Fantastic, and terrible at the same time, 22 Feb 2008
I'm so happy that I read the game. Without it, i'd still be a lonely depressed chump. However, I read it in 2005 and things have moved on, now I have to compare it to books like The Natural Art of Seduction...

The Game is a well-written engaging story. Secondly it exposes a world where men can LEARN how to be better with women. Third, it has some techniques and tricks to actually put things into practice.

The problem is that The Game describes PUA Verson 1.0, the kind where guys looked silly (peacocking), lied (routines, canned material), used silly tricks (magic?!) and basically put on a big fake act.

Just like when smokers thought it wasn't bad for them, before all the studies came out, guys loved this stuff. However, a few years later, cracks started to show:

The guys were great at the first few hours, their acting skills allowed them to get girls that really were out of their league. The problem: They could never keep these girls once the material ran out. Serious guys with interesting lives were becoming someone else when they didn't need to be. Guys were starting to become weird, to view women more and more as objects, and actually not even getting the results they wanted at the end of it.

And then came Pick Up 2.0, the kind that is about building better men, becoming a more attractive person, and over time developing "Natural Game". Sure, you might use some tricks and gimmicks in the first few weeks or months (think training wheels) but soon, all that stuff falls away as you build natural confidence.

The techniques in The Game are not healthy for men or women in the long run, but guys should thank Neil Strauss for bringing this little-known area into the mainstream and giving guys a way to become the person they desperately wished they were.

For a more powerful and moral appraoch, and a book with much more usable technique, check out The Natural Art of Seduction. Both books together would make a great introduction and are probably the best you can do on Amazon for imrpoving your skills with women.

Looks is deceiving, 19 Jan 2008
What impressed me as much as anything about Neil Strauss' lifting of the lid on the world of PUA's (pick up artists) is the quality of the writing. This is so much more than a how to manual (which it isn't really although along the way you learn a bunch of the techniques used by these guys). It's funny as hell, genuinely fascinating and above all a morality tale that is often dismissed by people who haven't read it as being some chauvinistic tract on how to use women to your own ends. It's much more complex that that even if it does paint a portrait of what it often a pretty seedy and vacuous world. Strauss knows this whilst at the same time finding it hard to resist - his reinvention himself as Style, ladies man extraordinaire and general guru to a whole bunch of desperate men, is something that he does not do without misgivings and this is what makes the book interesting and well worth a read.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Spookily brilliant, 24 Jun 2008
What a discovery!!! I bought this book as part of some research for my own book and I was very pleasantly surprised.

I never made the connection that Mr Strauss was the co-author of the much lauded Motley Crue's "The Dirt".

Ok, the stories in this book may seem a bit stretched or hard to believe, but hey, it's Americans we are talking about. What I have to say is that reading this book made me look back on my failures and successes at picking women, and it was almost uncanny to read word by word where I went right and wrong.

The Game is a bit of a cross between Queer Eye For The Straight Guy cum Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus cum any rock and roll tale of debauchery you care to think of.

Interesting but not recommendable for old school romantics out there.

Great, 13 May 2008
This is a great book. Whether you decide to try to use the methods demonstration within the book or not, it makes a great story with mentions of lots of celebrities and hollywood celeb hangouts.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and for the price it is well worth it.



Amazingly Fantastic, and terrible at the same time, 22 Feb 2008
I'm so happy that I read the game. Without it, i'd still be a lonely depressed chump. However, I read it in 2005 and things have moved on, now I have to compare it to books like The Natural Art of Seduction...

The Game is a well-written engaging story. Secondly it exposes a world where men can LEARN how to be better with women. Third, it has some techniques and tricks to actually put things into practice.

The problem is that The Game describes PUA Verson 1.0, the kind where guys looked silly (peacocking), lied (routines, canned material), used silly tricks (magic?!) and basically put on a big fake act.

Just like when smokers thought it wasn't bad for them, before all the studies came out, guys loved this stuff. However, a few years later, cracks started to show:

The guys were great at the first few hours, their acting skills allowed them to get girls that really were out of their league. The problem: They could never keep these girls once the material ran out. Serious guys with interesting lives were becoming someone else when they didn't need to be. Guys were starting to become weird, to view women more and more as objects, and actually not even getting the results they wanted at the end of it.

And then came Pick Up 2.0, the kind that is about building better men, becoming a more attractive person, and over time developing "Natural Game". Sure, you might use some tricks and gimmicks in the first few weeks or months (think training wheels) but soon, all that stuff falls away as you build natural confidence.

The techniques in The Game are not healthy for men or women in the long run, but guys should thank Neil Strauss for bringing this little-known area into the mainstream and giving guys a way to become the person they desperately wished they were.

For a more powerful and moral appraoch, and a book with much more usable technique, check out The Natural Art of Seduction. Both books together would make a great introduction and are probably the best you can do on Amazon for imrpoving your skills with women.

Looks is deceiving, 19 Jan 2008
What impressed me as much as anything about Neil Strauss' lifting of the lid on the world of PUA's (pick up artists) is the quality of the writing. This is so much more than a how to manual (which it isn't really although along the way you learn a bunch of the techniques used by these guys). It's funny as hell, genuinely fascinating and above all a morality tale that is often dismissed by people who haven't read it as being some chauvinistic tract on how to use women to your own ends. It's much more complex that that even if it does paint a portrait of what it often a pretty seedy and vacuous world. Strauss knows this whilst at the same time finding it hard to resist - his reinvention himself as Style, ladies man extraordinaire and general guru to a whole bunch of desperate men, is something that he does not do without misgivings and this is what makes the book interesting and well worth a read.



Three Cups of Tea, 05 Oct 2008
This is the most inspiring book I have read this year, I could not put it down, and I shall be buying many copys for Christmas presents. I have already recommended it to lots of friends. It is increadable what Greg Mortenson has achieved in such a short time, what a wonderful way to promote peace. I did not want the book to end, it was so well written. Just wish there were many more Greg Mortenson's in the world.

Three Cups of Tea, 04 Oct 2008
Three Cups of Tea

Fantastic book, easy to read and shows what one man with masses of determination can do to make the world a better and safer place to live in. Thoroughly recommend it.

a most inspiring book...., 01 Oct 2008
a wonderful book, when reality becomes mythical....it makes you reconsider many points of view,opens a big window of humanity in you.
i was very moved....and grateful

Everyone should read this!, 22 Sep 2008
An absolutely inspiring book. Greg Mortenson is a hero. It really made me realise that education could well be the answer in the help to combat terrorism.

Pure inspiration, 10 Sep 2008
This book brought tears to my eyes so often that it became embarassing in front of my wife and children. After I read it I got my 11 year old son to read it with me as well. He claimed it the second best book after Great expectations. Its just full of such humanity and makes so much sense in this topsy turvy world that it ought to be a compulsory reading all over but particularly in Pakistan. I hope Greg organises to have it translated and sell the urdu version in Pakistan.

On December 8, 1995, Jean-Dominique Bauby's life was forever altered when a part of his body he'd never heard of--his brain stem--was rendered inactive. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, his exquisitely painful memoir, is neither a triumphant account of recovery nor a journey into the abyss of self-pity. Instead, it is a tender testament to the power of language and love. At 43, Bauby was defined by success, wit and charisma. But in the course of a few bewildering minutes, the editor-in-chief of French Elle became a victim of the rare locked-in syndrome. The only way he could express his frustration, however, was by blinking his left eye. The rest of his body could no longer respond. Bauby was determined to escape the paralysis of his diving bell and free the butterflies of his imagination. And with the help of ESA, "a hit parade in which each letter is placed according to the frequency of its use in the French language," Bauby did so. Visitors, and eventually his editor, would read each letter aloud and he would blink at the right one. Slowly--painstakingly-- words, sentences, paragraphs and even this graceful book emerged.

Bauby relays the horrors and small graces of his struggle, which range from awaking one day to discover his right eye being sewn shut to realising the significance of Father's Day, a holiday previously absent from his family's "emotional calendar": "Today we spent the whole of the symbolic day together, affirming that even a rough sketch, a shadow, a tiny fragment of a dad is still a dad." The author makes it clear that being locked in doesn't kick open the doors of perception, but The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is nonetheless a celebration of life. Jean Dominique-Bauby died of a heart attack on March 9, 1997, two days after his book was published in France.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Spookily brilliant, 24 Jun 2008
What a discovery!!! I bought this book as part of some research for my own book and I was very pleasantly surprised.

I never made the connection that Mr Strauss was the co-author of the much lauded Motley Crue's "The Dirt".

Ok, the stories in this book may seem a bit stretched or hard to believe, but hey, it's Americans we are talking about. What I have to say is that reading this book made me look back on my failures and successes at picking women, and it was almost uncanny to read word by word where I went right and wrong.

The Game is a bit of a cross between Queer Eye For The Straight Guy cum Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus cum any rock and roll tale of debauchery you care to think of.

Interesting but not recommendable for old school romantics out there.

Great, 13 May 2008
This is a great book. Whether you decide to try to use the methods demonstration within the book or not, it makes a great story with mentions of lots of celebrities and hollywood celeb hangouts.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and for the price it is well worth it.



Amazingly Fantastic, and terrible at the same time, 22 Feb 2008
I'm so happy that I read the game. Without it, i'd still be a lonely depressed chump. However, I read it in 2005 and things have moved on, now I have to compare it to books like The Natural Art of Seduction...

The Game is a well-written engaging story. Secondly it exposes a world where men can LEARN how to be better with women. Third, it has some techniques and tricks to actually put things into practice.

The problem is that The Game describes PUA Verson 1.0, the kind where guys looked silly (peacocking), lied (routines, canned material), used silly tricks (magic?!) and basically put on a big fake act.

Just like when smokers thought it wasn't bad for them, before all the studies came out, guys loved this stuff. However, a few years later, cracks started to show:

The guys were great at the first few hours, their acting skills allowed them to get girls that really were out of their league. The problem: They could never keep these girls once the material ran out. Serious guys with interesting lives were becoming someone else when they didn't need to be. Guys were starting to become weird, to view women more and more as objects, and actually not even getting the results they wanted at the end of it.

And then came Pick Up 2.0, the kind that is about building better men, becoming a more attractive person, and over time developing "Natural Game". Sure, you might use some tricks and gimmicks in the first few weeks or months (think training wheels) but soon, all that stuff falls away as you build natural confidence.

The techniques in The Game are not healthy for men or women in the long run, but guys should thank Neil Strauss for bringing this little-known area into the mainstream and giving guys a way to become the person they desperately wished they were.

For a more powerful and moral appraoch, and a book with much more usable technique, check out The Natural Art of Seduction. Both books together would make a great introduction and are probably the best you can do on Amazon for imrpoving your skills with women.

Looks is deceiving, 19 Jan 2008
What impressed me as much as anything about Neil Strauss' lifting of the lid on the world of PUA's (pick up artists) is the quality of the writing. This is so much more than a how to manual (which it isn't really although along the way you learn a bunch of the techniques used by these guys). It's funny as hell, genuinely fascinating and above all a morality tale that is often dismissed by people who haven't read it as being some chauvinistic tract on how to use women to your own ends. It's much more complex that that even if it does paint a portrait of what it often a pretty seedy and vacuous world. Strauss knows this whilst at the same time finding it hard to resist - his reinvention himself as Style, ladies man extraordinaire and general guru to a whole bunch of desperate men, is something that he does not do without misgivings and this is what makes the book interesting and well worth a read.



Three Cups of Tea, 05 Oct 2008
This is the most inspiring book I have read this year, I could not put it down, and I shall be buying many copys for Christmas presents. I have already recommended it to lots of friends. It is increadable what Greg Mortenson has achieved in such a short time, what a wonderful way to promote peace. I did not want the book to end, it was so well written. Just wish there were many more Greg Mortenson's in the world.

Three Cups of Tea, 04 Oct 2008
Three Cups of Tea

Fantastic book, easy to read and shows what one man with masses of determination can do to make the world a better and safer place to live in. Thoroughly recommend it.

a most inspiring book...., 01 Oct 2008
a wonderful book, when reality becomes mythical....it makes you reconsider many points of view,opens a big window of humanity in you.
i was very moved....and grateful

Everyone should read this!, 22 Sep 2008
An absolutely inspiring book. Greg Mortenson is a hero. It really made me realise that education could well be the answer in the help to combat terrorism.

Pure inspiration, 10 Sep 2008
This book brought tears to my eyes so often that it became embarassing in front of my wife and children. After I read it I got my 11 year old son to read it with me as well. He claimed it the second best book after Great expectations. Its just full of such humanity and makes so much sense in this topsy turvy world that it ought to be a compulsory reading all over but particularly in Pakistan. I hope Greg organises to have it translated and sell the urdu version in Pakistan.

Fall in love with every day life again, 26 Aug 2008
This is possibly the worst situation anyone could ever be in yet, Bauby tried his hardest to remain positive and showed heroic humour throughout the entire book. Whilst an unbelievably sad situation, the book is not depressing.

You can read the whole book quite quickly. Even those who don't read often can enjoy this reasonably short story with a huge positive impact.

For me, this book has reunited myself with the life we are supposed to be living. Appreciating whatever little we might have, whether it be the ability of complete or limited physical movement, or material possessions, we are unable to enjoy them if we don't appreciate them.

We must stop and smell the flowers more, or watch a butterfly in action when we have the opportunity. For me, doing these kinds of things, honours Bauby more as it is my way of showing appreciation of his efforts to survive in a crushed state.

For now, Jean-Dominique Bauby can rest in peace. And in the day of resurrection, he shall walk, talk and enjoy the real life again.
John 5:21, 28 & 29

Heartrending, 23 Aug 2008
Almost too poignant for words. A must read that will give you a kick up the pants and make you cherish all that's good in your life.

excellent, 21 Aug 2008
Short enough to read in one sitting, this book is well worth the read. It describes the vivid thoughts of a man struck down by a debilitating stroke at the peak of his career. Darkly comic and ultimately optimistic, the book is a compulsive page turner, and makes an excellent companion to the movie. Its all the more remarkable given that it was written through the medium of a blink of an eye.

Lasting impression, 30 Apr 2008
"Le Scaphandre et le Papillon" is a fantastic read full stop. I understand other's thoughts on this book and I respect their opinions, but for me, this book has had a lasting impression. I have also watched, about 2 years after having read the book, the French film version which was fairly accurate in relation to the book. I found that I gained enough insight into his former life to suffice - one must not expect memoirs of his entire life, but a focus upon his life after the stroke with a few references to his 'former' life. Both the book and the film are well written and produced and I have recommended and will continue to recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Five stars dosent do it justice..., 27 Mar 2008
I admit it, i'm emotional; I cried at this book, but for good reason;

The brain rarely fails, but when it does, god almighty, does it fail!

I couldn't bear reading this book for longer then a few moments at a time, because I knew what was happening to him.

Nevertheless, to place it in the context of the reader; imagine your arms, your legs, everything being tied down, tied down so tight you can't feel them, you can't feel your heart, nor your lungs. You have yourself, your brain. That's all.

Terrifying, and a grim reminder of what awaits us if we do not take care of our brain.

People around the world have found inspiration in the story of Lance Armstrong--a world-class athlete nearly struck down by cancer, only to recover and win the Tour de France, the multiday bicycle race famous for its gruelling intensity. Armstrong is a thoroughgoing Texan jock, and the changes brought to his life by his illness are startling and powerful, but he's just not interested in wearing a hero suit. While his vocabulary is a bit on the he-man side (highest compliment to his wife: "she's a stud"), his actions will melt the most hard-bitten souls: a cancer foundation and benefit bike ride, his astonishing commitment to training that got him past countless hurdles, loyalty to the people and corporations that never gave up on him. There's serious medical detail here, which may not be for the faint of heart; from chemo to surgical procedures to his wife's in vitro fertilization, you won't be spared a single x-ray, IV drip, or unfortunate side effect. Athletes and coaches everywhere will benefit from the same extraordinary detail provided about training sessions--every aching tendon, every rainy afternoon, and every small triumph during his long recovery is here in living colour. It's Not About the Bike is the perfect title for this book about life, death, illness, family, setbacks, and triumphs, but not especially about the bike. --Jill Lightner, Amazon.com

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Spookily brilliant, 24 Jun 2008
What a discovery!!! I bought this book as part of some research for my own book and I was very pleasantly surprised.

I never made the connection that Mr Strauss was the co-author of the much lauded Motley Crue's "The Dirt".

Ok, the stories in this book may seem a bit stretched or hard to believe, but hey, it's Americans we are talking about. What I have to say is that reading this book made me look back on my failures and successes at picking women, and it was almost uncanny to read word by word where I went right and wrong.

The Game is a bit of a cross between Queer Eye For The Straight Guy cum Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus cum any rock and roll tale of debauchery you care to think of.

Interesting but not recommendable for old school romantics out there.

Great, 13 May 2008
This is a great book. Whether you decide to try to use the methods demonstration within the book or not, it makes a great story with mentions of lots of celebrities and hollywood celeb hangouts.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and for the price it is well worth it.



Amazingly Fantastic, and terrible at the same time, 22 Feb 2008
I'm so happy that I read the game. Without it, i'd still be a lonely depressed chump. However, I read it in 2005 and things have moved on, now I have to compare it to books like The Natural Art of Seduction...

The Game is a well-written engaging story. Secondly it exposes a world where men can LEARN how to be better with women. Third, it has some techniques and tricks to actually put things into practice.

The problem is that The Game describes PUA Verson 1.0, the kind where guys looked silly (peacocking), lied (routines, canned material), used silly tricks (magic?!) and basically put on a big fake act.

Just like when smokers thought it wasn't bad for them, before all the studies came out, guys loved this stuff. However, a few years later, cracks started to show:

The guys were great at the first few hours, their acting skills allowed them to get girls that really were out of their league. The problem: They could never keep these girls once the material ran out. Serious guys with interesting lives were becoming someone else when they didn't need to be. Guys were starting to become weird, to view women more and more as objects, and actually not even getting the results they wanted at the end of it.

And then came Pick Up 2.0, the kind that is about building better men, becoming a more attractive person, and over time developing "Natural Game". Sure, you might use some tricks and gimmicks in the first few weeks or months (think training wheels) but soon, all that stuff falls away as you build natural confidence.

The techniques in The Game are not healthy for men or women in the long run, but guys should thank Neil Strauss for bringing this little-known area into the mainstream and giving guys a way to become the person they desperately wished they were.

For a more powerful and moral appraoch, and a book with much more usable technique, check out The Natural Art of Seduction. Both books together would make a great introduction and are probably the best you can do on Amazon for imrpoving your skills with women.

Looks is deceiving, 19 Jan 2008
What impressed me as much as anything about Neil Strauss' lifting of the lid on the world of PUA's (pick up artists) is the quality of the writing. This is so much more than a how to manual (which it isn't really although along the way you learn a bunch of the techniques used by these guys). It's funny as hell, genuinely fascinating and above all a morality tale that is often dismissed by people who haven't read it as being some chauvinistic tract on how to use women to your own ends. It's much more complex that that even if it does paint a portrait of what it often a pretty seedy and vacuous world. Strauss knows this whilst at the same time finding it hard to resist - his reinvention himself as Style, ladies man extraordinaire and general guru to a whole bunch of desperate men, is something that he does not do without misgivings and this is what makes the book interesting and well worth a read.



Three Cups of Tea, 05 Oct 2008
This is the most inspiring book I have read this year, I could not put it down, and I shall be buying many copys for Christmas presents. I have already recommended it to lots of friends. It is increadable what Greg Mortenson has achieved in such a short time, what a wonderful way to promote peace. I did not want the book to end, it was so well written. Just wish there were many more Greg Mortenson's in the world.

Three Cups of Tea, 04 Oct 2008
Three Cups of Tea

Fantastic book, easy to read and shows what one man with masses of determination can do to make the world a better and safer place to live in. Thoroughly recommend it.

a most inspiring book...., 01 Oct 2008
a wonderful book, when reality becomes mythical....it makes you reconsider many points of view,opens a big window of humanity in you.
i was very moved....and grateful

Everyone should read this!, 22 Sep 2008
An absolutely inspiring book. Greg Mortenson is a hero. It really made me realise that education could well be the answer in the help to combat terrorism.

Pure inspiration, 10 Sep 2008
This book brought tears to my eyes so often that it became embarassing in front of my wife and children. After I read it I got my 11 year old son to read it with me as well. He claimed it the second best book after Great expectations. Its just full of such humanity and makes so much sense in this topsy turvy world that it ought to be a compulsory reading all over but particularly in Pakistan. I hope Greg organises to have it translated and sell the urdu version in Pakistan.

Fall in love with every day life again, 26 Aug 2008
This is possibly the worst situation anyone could ever be in yet, Bauby tried his hardest to remain positive and showed heroic humour throughout the entire book. Whilst an unbelievably sad situation, the book is not depressing.

You can read the whole book quite quickly. Even those who don't read often can enjoy this reasonably short story with a huge positive impact.

For me, this book has reunited myself with the life we are supposed to be living. Appreciating whatever little we might have, whether it be the ability of complete or limited physical movement, or material possessions, we are unable to enjoy them if we don't appreciate them.

We must stop and smell the flowers more, or watch a butterfly in action when we have the opportunity. For me, doing these kinds of things, honours Bauby more as it is my way of showing appreciation of his efforts to survive in a crushed state.

For now, Jean-Dominique Bauby can rest in peace. And in the day of resurrection, he shall walk, talk and enjoy the real life again.
John 5:21, 28 & 29

Heartrending, 23 Aug 2008
Almost too poignant for words. A must read that will give you a kick up the pants and make you cherish all that's good in your life.

excellent, 21 Aug 2008
Short enough to read in one sitting, this book is well worth the read. It describes the vivid thoughts of a man struck down by a debilitating stroke at the peak of his career. Darkly comic and ultimately optimistic, the book is a compulsive page turner, and makes an excellent companion to the movie. Its all the more remarkable given that it was written through the medium of a blink of an eye.

Lasting impression, 30 Apr 2008
"Le Scaphandre et le Papillon" is a fantastic read full stop. I understand other's thoughts on this book and I respect their opinions, but for me, this book has had a lasting impression. I have also watched, about 2 years after having read the book, the French film version which was fairly accurate in relation to the book. I found that I gained enough insight into his former life to suffice - one must not expect memoirs of his entire life, but a focus upon his life after the stroke with a few references to his 'former' life. Both the book and the film are well written and produced and I have recommended and will continue to recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Five stars dosent do it justice..., 27 Mar 2008
I admit it, i'm emotional; I cried at this book, but for good reason;

The brain rarely fails, but when it does, god almighty, does it fail!

I couldn't bear reading this book for longer then a few moments at a time, because I knew what was happening to him.

Nevertheless, to place it in the context of the reader; imagine your arms, your legs, everything being tied down, tied down so tight you can't feel them, you can't feel your heart, nor your lungs. You have yourself, your brain. That's all.

Terrifying, and a grim reminder of what awaits us if we do not take care of our brain.



It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.

Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008

The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.


This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.



Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!

It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.

More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a form of monastic living that is austere in the extreme. She spent her days in service at the Ashram, beginning with menial chores, and going on at a later stage, to administrative duties. All this she did, while meditating several hours a day, practising the Vipassana form of meditation, which is not easy on the ego, as most people, familiar with it, know. She cleared this test of her life with flying colours, being blessed with the experience of Immanence, Finally, after these events, Elizabeth Gilbert, moves on to Indonesia, seeking a balance between the two extremes in living conditions that she has experienced. There, she makes a lot of new friends, becoming part of their lives, and finally achieving true love. The happy ending shows her jetting between continents to family and friends strewn all over the globe.

One important lesson coming across from the book, that I myself, needed to be re-minded of, is that it is the journey towards the goal, that is more important. That the means are even more important than the goal. That your commitment to walk the path that has been charted out, with sincerity is what draws desired circumstances to you, either positive or negative. That full fledged, hundred per cent commitment can and does bring rewards. Many of us have forgotten this in our lives, our cynicism has taken over and shuts out our inner selves with its protectionism. Cynicism does not seem to have affected Elizabeth GIlbert's experience in this book.

An outstanding feature of this book is the heartwarming intimacy with which it has been written. Always open to trying out new games, the author freely makes jokes against herself. Some of her games have amazing repercussions. In one such incident, the author plays a game with a friend, affirming one after one, that several important people would like her to have a certain desire granted. And lo and behold, it was! This particular game alerted me once more to the greatest and most well concealed spiritual secret of the century, 'We are all One'.

The after-effects of this book have stayed with me like a warm blanket. I feel I am a better person for having read it. And of course, I recommend it with all my heart.



Forget the life coach and management books and just read this, 26 Aug 2008
I'm nearly at the end of the book but couldn't wait to say what a thoroughly enjoyable, funny, and thought provoking read this book has been. I've read this as an atheist with an always enquiring mind. I've not felt pressured into following Ms Gilbert's beliefs - this is not a "Try this at home" or a "How to be successful" book, nor is it judgmental of any religions. This is Gilbert's very personal journey and it explains ideas and practices from most religions. I have an understanding of where she's coming from. It hasn't changed my views of the practised religions, but it has encouraged me to read further.It could also be titled "A tourist's guide to searching for God" as the descriptions of the places Gilbert visits could rank with any good book on tourism.
I read the 1 poor review this book was given on the Amazon review pages and was surprised to find the person thought the book "very American". After reading the intro chapter I was expecting the author to be British. The humour is self-deprecating - not something I usually associate with American authors.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Spookily brilliant, 24 Jun 2008
What a discovery!!! I bought this book as part of some research for my own book and I was very pleasantly surprised.

I never made the connection that Mr Strauss was the co-author of the much lauded Motley Crue's "The Dirt".

Ok, the stories in this book may seem a bit stretched or hard to believe, but hey, it's Americans we are talking about. What I have to say is that reading this book made me look back on my failures and successes at picking women, and it was almost uncanny to read word by word where I went right and wrong.

The Game is a bit of a cross between Queer Eye For The Straight Guy cum Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus cum any rock and roll tale of debauchery you care to think of.

Interesting but not recommendable for old school romantics out there.

Great, 13 May 2008
This is a great book. Whether you decide to try to use the methods demonstration within the book or not, it makes a great story with mentions of lots of celebrities and hollywood celeb hangouts.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and for the price it is well worth it.



Amazingly Fantastic, and terrible at the same time, 22 Feb 2008
I'm so happy that I read the game. Without it, i'd still be a lonely depressed chump. However, I read it in 2005 and things have moved on, now I have to compare it to books like The Natural Art of Seduction...

The Game is a well-written engaging story. Secondly it exposes a world where men can LEARN how to be better with women. Third, it has some techniques and tricks to actually put things into practice.

The problem is that The Game describes PUA Verson 1.0, the kind where guys looked silly (peacocking), lied (routines, canned material), used silly tricks (magic?!) and basically put on a big fake act.

Just like when smokers thought it wasn't bad for them, before all the studies came out, guys loved this stuff. However, a few years later, cracks started to show:

The guys were great at the first few hours, their acting skills allowed them to get girls that really were out of their league. The problem: They could never keep these girls once the material ran out. Serious guys with interesting lives were becoming someone else when they didn't need to be. Guys were starting to become weird, to view women more and more as objects, and actually not even getting the results they wanted at the end of it.

And then came Pick Up 2.0, the kind that is about building better men, becoming a more attractive person, and over time developing "Natural Game". Sure, you might use some tricks and gimmicks in the first few weeks or months (think training wheels) but soon, all that stuff falls away as you build natural confidence.

The techniques in The Game are not healthy for men or women in the long run, but guys should thank Neil Strauss for bringing this little-known area into the mainstream and giving guys a way to become the person they desperately wished they were.

For a more powerful and moral appraoch, and a book with much more usable technique, check out The Natural Art of Seduction. Both books together would make a great introduction and are probably the best you can do on Amazon for imrpoving your skills with women.

Looks is deceiving, 19 Jan 2008
What impressed me as much as anything about Neil Strauss' lifting of the lid on the world of PUA's (pick up artists) is the quality of the writing. This is so much more than a how to manual (which it isn't really although along the way you learn a bunch of the techniques used by these guys). It's funny as hell, genuinely fascinating and above all a morality tale that is often dismissed by people who haven't read it as being some chauvinistic tract on how to use women to your own ends. It's much more complex that that even if it does paint a portrait of what it often a pretty seedy and vacuous world. Strauss knows this whilst at the same time finding it hard to resist - his reinvention himself as Style, ladies man extraordinaire and general guru to a whole bunch of desperate men, is something that he does not do without misgivings and this is what makes the book interesting and well worth a read.



Three Cups of Tea, 05 Oct 2008
This is the most inspiring book I have read this year, I could not put it down, and I shall be buying many copys for Christmas presents. I have already recommended it to lots of friends. It is increadable what Greg Mortenson has achieved in such a short time, what a wonderful way to promote peace. I did not want the book to end, it was so well written. Just wish there were many more Greg Mortenson's in the world.

Three Cups of Tea, 04 Oct 2008
Three Cups of Tea

Fantastic book, easy to read and shows what one man with masses of determination can do to make the world a better and safer place to live in. Thoroughly recommend it.

a most inspiring book...., 01 Oct 2008
a wonderful book, when reality becomes mythical....it makes you reconsider many points of view,opens a big window of humanity in you.
i was very moved....and grateful

Everyone should read this!, 22 Sep 2008
An absolutely inspiring book. Greg Mortenson is a hero. It really made me realise that education could well be the answer in the help to combat terrorism.

Pure inspiration, 10 Sep 2008
This book brought tears to my eyes so often that it became embarassing in front of my wife and children. After I read it I got my 11 year old son to read it with me as well. He claimed it the second best book after Great expectations. Its just full of such humanity and makes so much sense in this topsy turvy world that it ought to be a compulsory reading all over but particularly in Pakistan. I hope Greg organises to have it translated and sell the urdu version in Pakistan.

Fall in love with every day life again, 26 Aug 2008
This is possibly the worst situation anyone could ever be in yet, Bauby tried his hardest to remain positive and showed heroic humour throughout the entire book. Whilst an unbelievably sad situation, the book is not depressing.

You can read the whole book quite quickly. Even those who don't read often can enjoy this reasonably short story with a huge positive impact.

For me, this book has reunited myself with the life we are supposed to be living. Appreciating whatever little we might have, whether it be the ability of complete or limited physical movement, or material possessions, we are unable to enjoy them if we don't appreciate them.

We must stop and smell the flowers more, or watch a butterfly in action when we have the opportunity. For me, doing these kinds of things, honours Bauby more as it is my way of showing appreciation of his efforts to survive in a crushed state.

For now, Jean-Dominique Bauby can rest in peace. And in the day of resurrection, he shall walk, talk and enjoy the real life again.
John 5:21, 28 & 29

Heartrending, 23 Aug 2008
Almost too poignant for words. A must read that will give you a kick up the pants and make you cherish all that's good in your life.

excellent, 21 Aug 2008
Short enough to read in one sitting, this book is well worth the read. It describes the vivid thoughts of a man struck down by a debilitating stroke at the peak of his career. Darkly comic and ultimately optimistic, the book is a compulsive page turner, and makes an excellent companion to the movie. Its all the more remarkable given that it was written through the medium of a blink of an eye.

Lasting impression, 30 Apr 2008
"Le Scaphandre et le Papillon" is a fantastic read full stop. I understand other's thoughts on this book and I respect their opinions, but for me, this book has had a lasting impression. I have also watched, about 2 years after having read the book, the French film version which was fairly accurate in relation to the book. I found that I gained enough insight into his former life to suffice - one must not expect memoirs of his entire life, but a focus upon his life after the stroke with a few references to his 'former' life. Both the book and the film are well written and produced and I have recommended and will continue to recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Five stars dosent do it justice..., 27 Mar 2008
I admit it, i'm emotional; I cried at this book, but for good reason;

The brain rarely fails, but when it does, god almighty, does it fail!

I couldn't bear reading this book for longer then a few moments at a time, because I knew what was happening to him.

Nevertheless, to place it in the context of the reader; imagine your arms, your legs, everything being tied down, tied down so tight you can't feel them, you can't feel your heart, nor your lungs. You have yourself, your brain. That's all.

Terrifying, and a grim reminder of what awaits us if we do not take care of our brain.



It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.

Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008

The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.


This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.



Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!

It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.

More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.

Inspiring and quirky, 03 Oct 2008
Randy Pausch was a remarkable man and this book offers new perspectives on the things he could only touch on within the time constraints of his last lecture. It also reveals different aspects of his complex character. A perhaps uniquely American and Internet age attempt to face death and pass on hard won wisdom. Well worth reading and learning from.

What is the big hype about this book, 07 Sep 2008
I have completely failed to understand the hype around this book. What is so extraordinary about it? What does it tell us that we do not already know, what "life instructions" does it impart that are new????

"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand", 27 Aug 2008
If you had the oportunity to give a last lecture, what would you teach to those listening to you? Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, had to make that decision, and he decided to talk about how to really achieve your childhood dreams.

Randy was dying of cancer when he gave that class, in September. I saw his lecture on wwwyoutubecom, and it really made a big impression on me. It was interesting, motivating, sometimes funny, and the kind of thing that makes you think. Here was a man with a few months to live, that found some time to gift others with the things he had learnt along the way. It was simply unbelievable...

Of course, when I heard that the lecture had been transformed by Randy and Jeffrey Zaslow into a book, I was curious. What else could he say about the subject? The truth is that the book is very similar to the conference Randy gave at Carnegie Mellon, with a few extra details and anecdotes.

That is not necessarily a bad thing, though. This book is a legacy from a good man that makes you remember the importance of living in a way you can be proud of, making a good impact on the lives of others on a daily basis. As someone else so aptly put it, this is a wake-up call, and as such, something you should take advantage of and treasure.

Highly recommended...

Belen Alcat


Dying teacher's moving lesson plan for life, 28 Jul 2008
On July 4, 1939, Hall of Fame first baseman Lou Gehrig, fatally ill with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the disease that would be named after him, told a capacity crowd at Yankees Stadium that he was "the luckiest man on the face of the earth." Sixty-eight years later, Carnegie Mellon computer science professor Randy Pausch, who has terminal pancreatic cancer, delivered his "last lecture." Like Gehrig, Pausch used the opportunity to express his gratitude rather than focusing on his terrible misfortune. In an hour-long taped presentation that earned him worldwide acclaim as it spread throughout the Internet, Pausch summarized his philosophy, and spoke of the importance of lofty ambition, hard work and perseverance. Pausch's main objective was to leave a meaningful legacy for his three young children - and he succeeds brilliantly. His book, written with Jeffrey Zaslow, expands on the themes in his lecture, entitled "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams." Needless to say, Pausch serves up heaping portions of wonderful life-affirming advice. You'll discover the qualities that make him so special. You'll count your blessings. You'll cry. You may even feel embarrassed or ashamed for those times when you lapse into self-pity. getAbstract believes that every reader can draw inspiration from this remarkable man who embraces and celebrates life even as he faces death.

Dream Big...Dream Without Fear, 22 May 2008
After watching Randy's lecture called "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" on YouTube I was blown away by his honesty, clarity and forthrightness in conveying life lessons he has discovered. And soon after I ordered this book which is the written version of that humorous and inspiring lecture.

One of the ideas in his book is what Randy calls "head fake" where you learn an important lesson in an indirect way. I was reminded of my parents sending me out to my many childhood softball, tennis, skiing or golf lessons. At the time thinking I was just learning the skill sets of these sports but really learning so many other skills that have and continue to carry me through my achievements and successes. Those lessons instilled in me a deep impression of responsibility, commitment, knowing I make a difference and the importance of having play time and fun in my life. I so appreciate my parents unwavering commitment to me and my siblings in supporting us in our sporting life lesson adventures.

If you found Randy's book inspiring, I highly recommend checking out any one or all of Ariel and Shya Kane's books, "Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: A Book About Instantaneous Transformation," "Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment" or "How To Create a Magical Relationship." Each of the Kane's books have the idea of "Instantaneous Transformation" woven through the stories and ideas presented. Where through Instantaneous Transformation an ordinary mundane life can transform into a brilliant life adventure without work or effort.

Want to know more or curious about living the best life possible? Then go ahead and read either one or all of these incredibly inspiring books that can guide you in achieving your own dream life.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

I enjoyed the EAT part the best!, 03 Sep 2008
A lovely read and a moving tale which most women can relate to - especially the 'eat' bit where the protagonist re-discovers the jos of good food! I loved every minute of her time in Italy!

Chronicles a Journey of Joy, 02 Sep 2008
This book was really hard to put down. It is an autobiographical story that I wished would go on, that I just did not want to end. And of course, it has not ended, because life goes on, it's just that we are no more allowed access to the inner workings of the author's innovative mind. This book is a great window towards viewing how great emotional pain can be transmuted to an experience of grace and blessing, and leading to the proverbial happy ending, a life, infused with much greater joy, variety and color, besides including worldly success and financial prosperity.

As seen on the cover, this book is about one woman's search for wholeness and healing after two 'failed' relationships. To this end, the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, gives herself a year to investigate three different milieus, each for a more or less equal period of time. The first period would involve feasting in Italy and learning the Italian language, the second, fasting in an ashram in India, and the last, in Indonesia, where she would seek a balance between the two extreme environments.

So, knowing that her basic aim is to heal herself, the author indulges in the epicurean pleasures that Italy has to offer. After four months of travel and partying she moves on to a for