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best writer ever!
“A friend of mine introduced me to Paulo Coelho and it has changed my life in ways I never expected I love his style of writing I don't know if it's because it is translated in to English or what but I just find his writing simply beautiful. By the River Piedra... is for me the book that just answered so many questions about God, the love of my life, and so much more I totally recommend this book to anyone looking for a book that will not just stay with you but take up residence in you. ”
An amazon user wrote this on 2009-04-29. -
Interesting I guess...
“This book held my interest but somehow I was expecting more. It focused on spirituality and a man's call to the religious life vs that of marriage, which is fine; but a the outcome was a bit predictable... ”
An amazon user wrote this on 2009-03-18. -
Love found, lost and rediscovered -
“This is not an exciting book. It's not a complex story. And it certainly isn't subtle. The philosophy and message are clear, and are not open to multiple interpretation.
An amazon user wrote this on 2009-03-07.
That said, Coelho engages the reader once again with his wonderfully lyrical style of writing to deliver a story of love that is simple in its humanity. We feel the every-pain of Pilar that most of us experience, wanting love but being so afraid of getting hurt. We are familiar with her internal struggle that is without drama but with dramatic consequences. It's about choices and consequences, and the willingness to grow and become if we are truly wanting to experience love. Sometimes we get a second chance to get what we want - but we have to decide if we want "it" or the "idea of it." And most of all, we have to be willing to change and be open to receiving it. That can be the hardest of all.
Excellent reading by Stephanie Zimbalist - a thoroughly enjoyable listen to one of my favourite authors, and one I've enjoyed several times, now.” -
2 of 2 members found this review helpful.
You won't realize it until the end
“I will agree with a fellow reviewer and say that "By the River Piedra..." is heavy on religious themes. The theme with "The Other" is not my favorite. I guess it's reasonable to believe that "The Other" is the antagonist, or perhaps there is no true villain.
An amazon user wrote this on 2009-02-12.
There are many love stories in the world. We'll say Romeo & Juliet is the cliche. This story, in my opinion, surpasses any love story I have ever heard. It's a modern day fairy tale (like most of Paulo's stories). If the reader believes in that force known as love, then they will find themselves entranced by this story. Throughout the tale, one will begin to see themselves as both lovers. Every moment is beautiful, even the saddest. It's a subtle, soothing tale for the heart.
As for the title of the review...
Pay close attention as you read. If you find yourself very immersed in the story, you won't realize it until the end. It's kinda funny though.” -
1 of 1 members found this review helpful.
This one was an all-nighter for me.
“Why do I do this to myself? Why do I begin reading at 1 am when I've got to wake up at 8? Needless to say, waking up was easy when I never made it to sleep. This story pulled me right in.
An amazon user wrote this on 2008-08-09.
Worth the time, it was a quick read as well. I would have finished it faster but I enjoyed some pages so much I re-read them a couple of times.
Thank you Mr. Coelho for this lovely book. I truly appreciated it.”
