Journal Entry 1 by calvarez4 from Oakland, California USA on Monday, January 10, 2005

To be read. 

Journal Entry 2 by calvarez4 at Bookcrosser in Chicago, Illinois -- Controlled Releases on Friday, January 28, 2005

Released 7 yrs ago (1/28/2005 UTC) at Bookcrosser in Chicago, Illinois -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

I absolutely loved this book, and didn't want it to end. Allende charts a stunning story of adventure, taking us from the quiet port of Valpo, Chile (one of my favorite places to visit while I was living in Chile) to the heart of the San Francisco Gold Rush. A strong feminist character, beautiful character development, excellent commentary on race and class relations (particularly from a Latin perspective)... I once saw Allende interviewed, and she said that she was not raised to believe that humanity should strive toward happiness -- that this was a very North American/US ideal. She was taught, instead, that people should work hard, and most of all, should matter. To make a difference, to matter to somebody. It was easy to see this ethic in Eliza and Tao Chi'en. What a wonderful book.

A few quotes, to share:

"In the house no one could refuse a dish or a refreshment without causing offense; soon he would discover that this wasa national characteristic in Chile, where hospitality was manifested by forcing one's guests to drink and eat beyond the bounds of human endurance." (28) -- I love this :), because it is so true!!!

"Knowledge was of little use without spirituality, and that true spirituality always included service to others." (158)

"Nothing is in vain. You don't go anywhere in life, Eliza, you just keep walking." (395)

This was a wonderful book. Absolutely wonderful. I am happy to be sending it along to BCer corry000, who I hope will love it as much as I do.

*read as Book 4 for my 2005 BCing "new-to-me" authors challenge* 

Journal Entry 3 by corry000 from Chicago, Illinois USA on Tuesday, February 08, 2005

recieved safely. Thank you!