Pilgrims

These are well written stories, and well read on the audio CD version. They're diverse in their story lines and sometimes funny. I had a consistent problem with them, though. And maybe it's just me, but after each story ended I thought, "and then what?" It's as though Elizabeth Gilbert opens the door to a little drama unfolding and then closes it before the drama plays out. For those who like to exercise their imagination, this book would be pleasurable. For those (like me) who like a bit more closure to a story, not so much. ( )

Unique, tough and real characters populate this rather quirky book of stories that all seem to fairly vibrate and hum with a rich and powerful sense of place. She captures beautifully the innocence and tenderness possible from a clueless 15-year-old boy as deftly as the defensive irascibility of a Montana woman who receives a visit from unexpected neighbors while her husband is away. I was repeatedly struck by the economy of her prose, something I aspire to but rarely achieve in my own. Will probably have to re-read these several times to really absorb everything that is going on in them. Unusual, unpredictable and quite enjoyable. ( )

This one started badly. I wasn't interested in the first 5 or 6 stories - just didn't see the point of them, including the title story - and ended up putting the book down for a couple of weeks. After picking it back up though, I was pleasantly surprised. She writes characters that you just have to like, even when you're hating what they're doing or otherwise cringing about their behaviour. A good read, if you can get past the first few tales. ( )