Best Of: Samin Nosrat / Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert's 'All the Way to the River: Love, Loss, and Liberation' invites readers on a deeply personal journey through the complexities of human experience. Gilbert fearlessly explores the intricacies of love and heartbreak, sharing intimate reflections on loss and resilience. As she navigates life's inevitable challenges, the author discovers the path to personal liberation, embracing self-discovery and empowerment. With her signature blend of vulnerability and insight, Gilbert crafts a narrative that resonates with readers seeking solace and inspiration. This memoir is a testament to the human capacity for growth and transformation in the face of adversity, reminding us that love and liberation are always within reach.

The Signature of All Things is a historical fiction novel by Elizabeth Gilbert that follows the life of Alma Whittaker, a 19th-century botanist. The novel spans decades, exploring Alma's scientific pursuits, her family relationships, and her personal growth. Gilbert's writing beautifully weaves together scientific detail with a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of ambition, love, loss, and the enduring power of nature. It's a richly detailed and moving story of a woman who defies expectations to pursue her passions.

In 'City of Girls', Elizabeth Gilbert tells the story of Vivian Morris, a nineteen-year-old who is sent to Manhattan in 1940 after being kicked out of Vassar College. Vivian lives with her Aunt Peg, the owner of the flamboyant Lily Playhouse theater, where she is introduced to a vibrant world of showgirls, actors, and other charismatic characters. The novel follows Vivian's journey as she navigates her new life, makes personal mistakes that lead to professional scandals, and ultimately discovers the kind of life she craves and the freedom to pursue it. The story is told from the perspective of an older Vivian looking back on her youth with both pleasure and regret, reflecting on themes of human desire, connection, and the idiosyncrasies of true love.

In this classic work, Heschel argues that Judaism is a religion of time rather than space, and that the Sabbath is central to this concept. He describes the Sabbath as an 'architecture of holiness' in time, a day that offers a taste of the Kingdom of God and a repudiation of the materialistic and frenetic aspects of modern life. Heschel emphasizes the importance of observing the Sabbath as a command rather than a license, highlighting its role in declaring allegiance to God and in fostering a sense of inner liberty and spiritual communion.

In 'Big Magic', Elizabeth Gilbert delves into the mysteries of creativity, encouraging readers to live more creative and fulfilling lives. The book is divided into six parts: Courage, Enchantment, Permission, Persistence, Trust, and Divinity. Gilbert argues that creativity is an essential part of human nature and that it requires courage to accept and overcome fears. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, trust in the creative process, and the need to separate creativity from the pressure of making a living. Through personal anecdotes and insights from other artists, Gilbert demystifies the creative process and inspires readers to pursue their passions with curiosity rather than fear.

Good Things is an essential guide to cooking and living, offering more than 125 of Samin Nosrat's favorite recipes that she loves to cook for herself and friends. The book includes recipes like comforting tomato soup, ricotta custard pancakes, and a showstopping roast chicken, along with tips and techniques to enhance cooking experiences. It captures the warmth and creativity that makes cooking a source of delight and comfort.

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat is a culinary guide that focuses on mastering the four essential elements of good cooking: salt, which enhances flavor; fat, which delivers flavor and generates texture; acid, which balances flavor; and heat, which determines the texture of food. Written by Samin Nosrat, this book bridges the gap between home and professional kitchens with its simple yet revolutionary philosophy. It includes 100 essential recipes, dozens of variations, and vibrant illustrations by Wendy MacNaughton. The book is designed to empower readers to become more confident and creative in the kitchen, regardless of their skill level.

In 'Eat, Pray, Love', Elizabeth Gilbert chronicles her journey as she leaves behind her outwardly successful but inwardly unfulfilling life in the United States. The book is divided into three parts, each set in a different country: Italy, where she seeks pleasure and indulges in the local culture; India, where she delves into spiritual practices and meditation; and Bali, Indonesia, where she aims to find a balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence. The memoir is a personal and introspective account of Gilbert's struggles, growth, and self-discovery during her travels.