I don't see at all what the last two reviewers are talking about. I think we read different books. She didn't put down Italy, as a matter of fact, she even beautified Sicily, at least to me. If anything, she conveyed the people of Italy as PASSIONATE. Being Italian myself, I was not offended in the least.

That said, I found this book to be cathartic. The author went through things in her life that I also went through. Should I ever have the resources and finances to take a year to travel in order to fulfill a quest for enlightenment, I would do it now, at 37.

She followed her heart and it led her to what she wanted.

This book was beautifully written, enlightening and has truly made me reflect upon my life. I think anyone who has had turmoil in their lives should read this book.